Western Sydney defender Matthew Spiranovic is hoping Socceroos skipper Lucas Neill’s lack of game time may help his push for a World Cup spot.
Neill has been a constant presence in the Socceroos’ central defence for almost a decade but coach Ange Postecoglou has cast serious doubt over his selection for the upcoming March international friendly in Europe with a yet-to-be-named opponent.
The 35-year-old former Blackburn and West Ham star is still yet to secure a club since leaving Japanese outfit Omiya Ardija last month.
Spiranovic was once touted a future fixture of Australia’s back line but has not played for the Socceroos in over a year due to injuries and falling out of favour with former coach Holger Osieck. He earned the last of his 16 caps in November 2012.
The former Melbourne Victory player made a return to the A-League after stints in Germany, Japan and the Middle East in the hope of breaking back into the national fold ahead of the World Cup.
Since his Wanderers’ debut in round five against Melbourne Heart, his strong showings saw him emerge as coach Tony Popovic’s preferred option alongside Nikolai Topor-Stanley with skipper Michael Beauchamp dropped to the bench.
But with Popovic yet to field the same starting 11 in consecutive matches Spiranovic has been limited to just nine starts so far.
However, the 25-year-old still appears better-placed than Neill to earn a Socceroos spot with Postecoglou not willing to consider anyone not playing regularly.
And Spiranovic said that is driving him more than ever to ensure he performs every time he plays.
“Lucas like all the players faces the same challenges that I do, he needs to find regular game time and to be fit and healthy come selection time in May,” he said on Tuesday.
“That’s my challenge too, then it’s up to Ange.
“So every time I step out on to the field I try to put my best foot forward.
“I think we have a couple of friendlies leading up to the big tournament so I think players will be able to show Ange what they’re capable of.”
AZ_RBB
Guest
Spira might be having a good season but nothing on Jedinak, who has made the most interceptions in Europe’s top 5 leagues so far this season with 79!
Franko
Guest
The transfer window closes in about 48 hours. The week or so following that will be the best chance for Lucas to find a club. Basically he will need to rely on some clubs missing out on their main transfer targets and who are just looking for cover until the end of the year. Inspirational stuff from the old Cappy, I'm sure Van Persie, Sánchez and David Villa are quaking in their boots...
Passionate_Aussie
Roar Rookie
As long as Ange stays true to his word, then as each day passes, it looks more and more likely that Neill will miss a spot on the plane to Brazil. Hopefully Spiranovic can do a great job!
The Bear
Guest
I'd be surpised to see Spira ascend too far up the field, so in this instance I'd say you guys would looking at the other Shinji...Kagawa : ) Or just sign Endo (still only four letters).
AZ_RBB
Guest
It's interesting that before last weekend's game, Spira still wasn't on the radar of a lot of WSW fans. I think not being a flashy attacking player or part of the premiership winning team, he has taken longer to win over the fans. Having only played 9 games this season adds to that. But as the saying goes, the best defenders are the ones you don't notice. With Spira showing his ability to play in the mids as well. I wouldn't be surprised if we let Mooy go. Which will be a shame because he is my favourite player despite his drop in form this season. It's gonna cost me a fortune to get Spiranovic on the back of my jersey :P
The Bear
Guest
hah ha Sparanovic with predictive texting is Spars novice....
Peaches
Guest
He is definately a standard above the rest of the centre backs I've seen in the A-League. His composure on the ball is very good too which I think Ange may look for.
Franko
Guest
If WSW play well he'll get some great matches heading in to the WC. April is finals time for the A-League until first week of May. 2nd and 3rd weeks of May is Asian Champions League knock out stages. June is World Cup (with no doubt friendlies in early June). Hope it all works out well for the lad, he is a fair talent.
The Bear
Guest
Spars novice is the future. Ange will have to decide if he is the present. I hope he does.
Jack
Guest
And Rhys Williams just got injured. Holgers has left us in a tricky pos as he didn't blood any back up for sasha Williams neil
ken
Guest
Focus on the here and now, Matthew, pray you don't get injured and if it's meant to be then so be it. Watching him first hand I can see the potential. His positional change to defensive midfielder paid off for WSW. It will be interesting to see if it becomes a more suited position for him, allowing him to develop into an even better player. With his defensive capabilities, calmness on the ball and supreme distribution skills it might just work.