Postecoglou has been a focal point of criticism in some quarters after Australia failed to directly qualify for the 2018 World Cup.

A loss to Japan and a slender win over Thailand last month meant the Socceroos missed out on goal difference.

The national team and Postecoglou have under heavy scrutiny since those two World Cup qualifiers.


Pic special: Socceroos train in Malaysia

Wright believes some of the criticism has been "harsh" and is adamant that the 52-year old is still the right man to lead the team.

"I think it's harsh, but this is the game we're in," the defender told FourFourTwo.

"Whoever's watching games is going to give judgement and their opinion - that's just the way it is. But the atmosphere within the camp and with the lads, we know what we're working at. We assess things on our basis and we assess them on what we think.

"We know we're heading in the right direction. Obviously you can say the Japan result was disappointing, but Japan are a good side and they're difficult. We only lost one game during the qualifiers and goal difference has cost us.

"That's something we'll look at and it's something we'll want to improve on. But when you're playing for your country everyone's entitled to their opinion and that's the way it is. We're confident.

"The boss has been brilliant and us as a playing group we're all fully, 100% committed and we're enjoying what we're doing - regardless of what people from the outside are saying.

"It's amazing some of the comments that are out there. What he's (Postecoglou) done for us is amazing. For us as a group of players, and for me personally, what I've added to my game and what I've learnt has been massive.

"But that's football, that's how some people look at it. That's nothing new."

The Socceroos take on Syria in the first leg in Malaysia on Thursday before the return leg in Sydney next Tuesday.

Wright said the green and gold are confident heading into the matches but won't underestimate the Syrians, who are ranked 80th in the world.

"We've still got a great opportunity, we've just the got long way and the hard way," the Bristol City centre back said.

"We're still confident against Syria. They've got some good players and they'll make it different for us. They'll be respected by us because they are a good side to get to where they are now. It's a massive game for both of us. You can't underestimate them, that's for sure."