The 33-year-old, who was part of Australia's 2014 World Cup squad, has been an ever-present at the back this season for the Sky Blues.

New Australia boss Bert van Marwijk was in attendance for the clash at Allianz Stadium, with Arnold hailing Wilkinson's steadying influence.

"I thought Wilkinson again was great," Arnold said.

"He's solid as a rock all the time. He's a top defender. I couldn't be happier.

"He's such a smart player. Whoever plays next to him always plays well. He's such a good communicator."

Arnold said he used van Marwijk's presence as a motivational tool for his players with the lure of World Cup selection.

"I said to the boys before the game the new Socceroos coach is here and he's probably come with a blank sheet of paper," Arnold said.

"It's your opportunity to impress and get on that blank piece of paper with a great performance.

"I can't imagine Bert would be thinking long term. He'd only be thinking short term.

"Whoever performs at a great level over the next four months has got a great opportunity to go to a World Cup in Russia.

"I think alot of my older boys they're thinking what a great way to go out."

Wilkinson has 16 Socceroos caps and hasn't represented Australia since November 2015.