The position has been a problematic one for the German, who has opted to use the midfielder in defence ahead of the likes of Michael Zullo and Millwall's Shane Lowry.

McKay, 30, has performed admirably in the role despite Osieck saying the Changchun Yatai midfielder would be better suited to playing further up the park.

Chipperfield was a mainstay in the position for the Socceroos and said McKay needs time to develop.

"He's doing a good job at the moment. I think he's a better player playing more forward but he's doing a job there," he told Sportal.

"I think in time he'll keep improving. It's not an easy position to get used to playing after you've been playing midfield.

"I was the same as he was, I was an attacking midfielder and had to come back and play left-back. It takes time. If he's there for a while I'm sure he'll get used to it and get better at that position."

McKay is again likely to start at left-back when Australia face Iraq in a World Cup qualifier in Sydney on Tuesday night, where a win would secure their place at Brazil 2014.

Chipperfield, 37, said McKay would improve with experience, with the former Brisbane Roar captain needing to learn when to make forward runs.

"Sometimes he just looks a little bit lost. He doesn't know whether to go or stay," Chipperfield said.

"That comes with experience in that position. It's not an easy position to play."

Chipperfield is 'confident' the Socceroos will beat Iraq and praised Australia's performance in their 1-1 draw against Japan.

He was flying to Australia and missed the Jordan clash as he prepares to play for Tarrawanna in the Illawarra Mercury Premier League.

Chipperfield said he was surprised by the criticism of the veteran Socceroos leading into the three crucial World Cup qualifiers.

"Everyone expects us to qualify easily for the World Cup and it wasn't so easy. It's never easy playing away from home. I was confident we could win our home games, but it's never easy," he said.

"They copped a bit of stick but they've answered their critics with a good performance against Japan and (against Jordan). They just need to finish it off now next week."