Dario Vidosic says it’s too early to start thinking World Cup selection, but the attacking midfielder is confident he’s coming into his prime at the right time for the Socceroos.
Australia are preparing for their international friendly against France in Paris on Friday (Saturday 6am AEDT), followed by another fixture against Canada in London next week.
The Socceroos suffered a blow late on Tuesday when injuries ruled Brett Holman (quadricep) and Tom Rogic (groin) out of both friendlies.
Vidosic has 18 national caps to his name, but believes a move to Switzerland this year has helped take his game to a new level.
The 26-year-old is looking to capitalise on his strong form for FC Sion and is confident the rigours of European football has him best prepared to step up as a key man for a young Socceroos squad.
“Definitely, just playing every week against tougher opposition is good preparation,” said the former Adelaide United player.
“It’s another level and one you look forward to, playing against the best a country has to offer.
“I’m definitely ready for the challenge.”
Vidosic said the French presented a great opportunity for Australia to test themselves against world-class opposition.
The Croatian-born midfielder believes it would be dangerous to start thinking too far ahead to World Cup selection but understands the importance of taking every chance to impress coach Holger Osieck.
“It would be a dream come true but not thinking too much about that at the moment,” he said.
“Still a long way to go.
“First of all, look after the body and stay clear of injuries.
“Then play the best we can and create as many headaches as we can for Holger.
“You know straight away with the players France have that it’s going to be a great test. They’ve won World Cups and European championships … these are the challenges you love as a footballer … and to take another step towards Brazil.”
Vidosic has been starring in the Swiss league along with fellow Australian Oliver Bozanic, who has scored five goals from 11 appearances for FC Luzern.
Bozanic has been nicknamed Crocodile Oli by fans, while Vidosic has been given the Kangaroo moniker.
The 24-year-old Bozanic is uncapped as a Socceroo despite being in the mix for a while, but he’s likely to face France in the friendly at the Parc de Princes.
“I’d love to play. I’ve played in all the junior teams for the Socceroos,” Bozanic said.
“There’s some great young players coming through in Europe and in the A-League.”
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