While the Caltex Socceroos won’t be in action for another few months, the lure of the World Cup means a number of Hyundai A-League stars are already banging on the door of international selection.
March’s friendly window looks likely to provide a chance for hopefuls to force their way into calculations.
We’ve taken note of four local players who could get the opportunity to press their claims for a ticket to Russia.
JOSH BRILLANTE
The industrious Sydney FC midfielder looks to have gone to a new level this season, which is quite an achievement given the heights he reached last campaign.
Tough in the tackle, accomplished on the ball and with an engine matched by few, Brillante appears ready to challenge the likes of Mile Jedinak and Mark Milligan.
The 24-year-old had a taste of the big stage four years ago – being named in the initial 30-man squad for Brazil – and has already won five caps.
And with tournament experience from his time in the Young Socceroos, Brillante looks to have all the tools required to make the step-up.
DANIEL DE SILVA
Winning national team recognition is all about making yourself stand out and nobody is doing that better than Daniel De Silva.
As a no.10, the Central Coast playmaker is capable of either dropping into pockets to pick passes or using his speed to go beyond defences.
His variety of attributes saw him orchestrate one of the goals of the season last weekend as he won possession in his own half, bounced one-twos off teammates along the wing and kept his composure with a measured byline cut-back.
If he can maintain a consistent level of form, De Silva’s unique talents will be hard to ignore.
RHYS WILLIAMS
Williams made no secret of his desire to break back into the national team set-up in making the move to Melbourne Victory and he’s matched that ambition with output.
While his team’s start to the season was sluggish, there was no such concern over the ex-Middlesbrough captain.
He’s looked right at home in the heart of defence and hasn’t been affected by the injury troubles which have previously hampered his progress.
Now 29, Williams has the versatility and experience to earn a shot.
DIMITRI PETRATOS
The wildcard on this list.
Four goals in nine games and a stack of chances created for his Newcastle Jets teammates means Petratos will have to come under consideration if he can maintain the same pace until March.
Ernie Merrick has given the skillful former Sydney FC and Brisbane Roar man a licence to roam in behind the striker and he’s relishing the freedom.
At his best when his cutting inside onto either foot, the Australia youth international is a danger from range and the kind of player that can change a game in an instant.
