Ange Postecoglou feels the Socceroos are still lacking depth in defence and says the door isn't closed to James Meredith and other hopefuls as he casts his net far and wide.
Postecoglou has named two in-form Hyundai A-League defenders - versatile Adelaide United man Tarek Elrich and Brisbane Roar' FCs Luke DeVere - in his latest squad for the friendlies with Germany and FYR Macedonia later this month.
They join Asian Cup-winning centre-backs Matthew Spiranovic, Trent Sainsbury and Alex Wilkinson, as well as fullbacks Jason Davidson, Aziz Behich and Ivan Franjic, in the group picked for the matches in Kaiserslautern and Skopje.
ARTICLE: Ange names squad to face Germany and FYR Macedonia
After citing the need for more wide attacking options at the press conference to announce his squad, Postecoglou was then quizzed on the other areas the national team needs to strengthen in.
"If you look at the selection, probably at the back still," he said.
"That's the reason for bringing Tarek and Luke DeVere in. Particularly at right fullback we're still a little bit light on.
"Tarek obviously has the ability to play there. He's played a number of positions for Adelaide. He's now an experienced player and one we want to give an opportunity to."
Meredith had expressed his hope this week that a first Socceroos call-up might be within reach after helping Bradford City knock Chelsea and Sunderland out of this season's FA Cup.
While the 26-year-old was overlooked on this occasion, Postecoglou insisted no fringe or uncapped players should give up hope of featuring for their country.
"I'd be surprised if anyone thought any player who is eligible is not on our radar," he said.
"We've cast our net far and wide. Every player who is playing well is getting looked at. There is not a player on this planet or any other planet, if they've got any there, that won't be looked at by me.
"I've certainly made it my intention always to really make sure that the one thing about Socceroos selections is that if the form warrants it and they fit into what we're building here than they'll get an opportunity.
"We don't discount anybody, in any league. If players continue to show good form ... then they'll get an opportunity."
