Thwaite can't wait for Socceroos chance

It has been a welcome return to the international arena for Michael Thwaite over the past couple of months and one that has got him working harder than ever to impress the national coach.

It has been a welcome return to the international arena for Michael Thwaite over the past couple of months and one that has got him working harder than ever to impress the national coach.

Having played in the EAFF East Asian Cup Qualifiers, Thwaite was on the bench when Josh Kennedy headed Australia into their third straight World Cup.

The Perth Glory defender-s next job is to help Australia win the EAFF East Asian Cup in the nation-s first appearance in the tournament.

The Socceroos will take on South Korea, Japan and China later this month in Seoul and the side has been hard at work as they look to impress prior to Brazil 2014.

“The camp has been really good so far,” said Thwaite.

“It will be a massive physical test for us as we will be playing three games in the space of eight days.

“Holger (Osieck) realises this and has us doing double sessions so we are prepared for what is to come.

“I-m sure with the quick back up from each of the matches that the entire squad will be used.”

Thwaite, who first played for Australia back in 2005, was jovial at having the opportunity to add to his 12 international caps for his country.

“You are always happy to be involved with the Socceroos no matter what tournament it is.

“It will be a good chance for the fringe players and the next generation coming through to play in quality international matches.”

It will be these players that will be looking to impress the national coach as he gets closer to figuring out his squad for next year-s World Cup.

“I think that Holger is definitely keeping a close eye on guys in the A-League.

“If you look at the EAFF Cup qualifiers and now this camp there are a heap of new guys and a few guys from the U-20 Socceroos team that now have a chance to test themselves at the highest level.

“It-s always an advantage for a strong (domestic) league as it gives its players a good shot at playing on the international stage.”

Despite many of Australia-s first choice players unlikely to line up in the Green and Gold in Seoul it appears Australia-s combatants will be in a similar position giving the Socceroos a chance to claim some silverware.

“The three teams we will be lining up against are three of the better teams in Asia alongside ourselves.

“We know that we are not full strength but it is a big opening for our young players.

“As it is not a FIFA (sanctioned) date then we are likely to be playing against players from within the local leagues of the countries we are playing.

“This will help us to see how good the A-League is going compared to their leagues.”

Australia-s first match will be on Saturday 20 July against hosts South Korea, before playing Japan (25 July) and China (28 July).