Veteran Sydney FC defender Simon Colosimo admits earning selection in the Qantas Socceroos’ World Cup squad would mean ‘everything’ – but he won’t let the lure of a national jumper become a distraction.
Colosimo has been in career-best form through the early rounds of the Hyundai A-League season leading to a chorus of calls for his return to the national squad.
The 30-year-old is yet to play for the national team under Dutchman Pim Verbeek’s command, with his last international appearance coming in 2007.
But with his horror run of injuries now behind him, the veteran of 26 matches for the Qantas Socceroos is again daring to dream.
“I am excited (at the prospect of a Socceroos return), but this has been the first year where I haven’t really concerned myself or wasted any energy on worrying about that sort of thing,” Colosimo said from Sydney FC’s training base on Wednesday.
“It’s all been (about what I do) out here on the training pitch and on weekends and that’s where my focus is.”
“I know that if I play well then when the opportunity comes I have to be ready for it – if it comes.”
The in-form defender admits the fact several Hyundai A-League players have played a role in the national side in recent months is a positive sign, but he also knows nothing is assured in football.
“Look at Jason (Culina) look at Moorey (Craig Moore), and there’s a couple of other boys that have been in and around (the Qantas Socceroos squad),” he said.
“I think there’s good players (in the Hyundai A-League). Football’s a game of opinions and if Pim’s opinion is a positive one for individuals then it is, if it isn’t so be it.
The in-form defender has had little contact with Verbeek during his time as Qantas Socceroos coach having attended one training camp during the Dutchman’s reign.
But while he’s unsure what the national coach thinks of him, Colosimo admits he’s an admirer of Verbeek’s work.
“I like what he does, the boys have qualified (for the 2010 World Cup), they’ve got a big game tonight (against Oman) which I’m sure they’ll come through with flying colours,” he said.
“There’s a World Cup and an Asian Cup (coming up) that I think every single player no matter how long they’ve been around … always wants that opportunity to wear the green and gold.”
Colosimo’s club coach Vitezslav Lavicka stressed his importance to the Sky Blues’ title prospects, insisting he’s still capable of playing international football.
“Simon is a very important part of our team of course,” Lavicka said.
“Last season he had many problems with injury, this season he had a very good pre-season and now he’s the conductor of our defence.”
“(He’s) a good character, good person and an important player.”
“I think the Socceroos is a good target for Simon Colosimo and for other players as well.”
“I wish him and all players all the best in trying to reach this target.”
The competition leaders take on Adelaide United at Hindmarsh Stadium on Friday night in Round 11 action.
