MICHAEL Thwaite has been rewarded for another season of consistently high standards with a call-up to the Qantas Socceroos squad for the upcoming 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia at AAMI Park on 29 February.
The 28-year-old Gold Coast United skipper impressed at last October’s camp in Sydney and spoke of his delight at receiving the news from Holger Osieck.
“It’s a nice boost and a pleasant surprise for me personally and I’m really looking forward to it,” Thwaite said.
“Every player wants to be involved with the national team and you have to have belief that if you keep working hard and playing to a high standard then you have a chance of being selected.
“I made my debut in 2005 and have experienced all the different coaches since then and that is something that has really benefitted my game. Every time I’ve been involved I’ve always tried to bring something back with me that can improve me as a player at club level.”
Also coming into the squad are a host of big names and some returning heroes of the green and gold including captain Lucas Neill, Brett Emerton, Harry Kewell & Mark Schwarzer.
With a strong mix of European, Asian and Hyundai A-League based players Osieck is pleased he will get the chance to run his eye over some new inclusions before selecting his team to take the park on Wednesday night at AAMI Park.
“This match is as important as any match we play to further build on what we have achieved so far,” said Osieck.
“Each match we play is a chance for players to prove themselves and their position in the squad.
“The players included from the Hyundai A-League will get a closer look throughout the camp and I will make up my mind if I play them from our sessions.”
The Qantas Socceroos currently sit at the top of Group D with maximum points from their opening five matches and will assemble in Melbourne from Sunday.
2014 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers Third Round Match Day 6
QANTAS SOCCEROOS v SAUDI ARABIA
Wednesday 29 February 2012
AAMI Park, Melbourne
Kick off: 7.30pm QLD (8.30pm AEDT)