Stop overlooking Thompson, says Merrick

Melbourne Victory coach Ernie Merrick has urged Socceroos boss Pim Verbeek to recall in-form striker Archie Thompson to the international stage.

Thompson was again overlooked for a spot on Australia’s seven-man bench in Wednesday night’s World Cup qualifier against Qatar despite the 29-year old striker scoring three goals in five matches for the Victory.

Following the belting of Qatar, Verbeek again questioned the ability of A-League players to step up and play at the national level with Queensland Roar skipper Craig Moore the only Australia-based player picked in the team.

But Merrick is confident Thompson has made enough improvement on the deficiencies in his game to force his way into the Socceroos.

“We’re getting mixed messages – Mark Bosnich is so impressed with the quality of the A-League and Pim doesn’t appear to be impressed at the moment,” Merrick said.

“I think Archie Thompson could certainly do a good job in the national team for the Socceroos.

“The areas I think he was flat on – his work rate, his willingness to get to midfield and then get forward again – he’s just doing so well.

“He’s scoring goals from the midfield, he can play forward or as an attacking midfielder – he’s been outstanding for us and is having a great year and I think it’s just a matter of time before he forces himself in the starting line-up.”

Thompson may have a better chance of inclusion in the side to face Bahrain in Manama on November 19 as the match in not scheduled on a FIFA date and some stars may find it difficult to get leave from their European clubs.