Fringe Socceroo Craig Goodwin says his experience playing as wide player in Holland means he can be an option for Ange Postecoglou’s 3-4-3 formation.
At the weekend Goodwin helped his side to their first three points of the Eredivisie campaign with his volley leading Sparta to a 1-0 over FC Twente.
Ahead of the Soceroos' play-off series against Syria it's a timely reminder to Australian national team boss Postecoglou, that the 25-year-old has European League experience playing as a wing-back.
Postecoglou's switched to a back three during the second half of Australia's World Cup qualifying campaign with Brad Smith or Alex Gersbach occupying the wide position on the left.
Goodwin believes his experience playing the same role for his European club side means he can do a job for the national team.
“I am playing that formation consistently with Sparta so it would make it an easier transition coming into the Socceroos,” he said.
With Brad Smith caught out of position for the opening goal against Japan and unable to gain regular football at Bournemouth, Socceroos fans are puzzled as to why Goodwin hasn’t played for Australia since May 2015.
After an injury complaint interrupted his debut season abroad, Goodwin feels an injury free campaign with his Dutch side will help his cause
“I’m very hungry for it, he said. “For me to have any chance of being called into the squad for the qualifiers and then the World Cup, I am going to have to be playing consistently and well with Sparta.
“With the situation with my shin splints I don’t think certain circumstances helped in that aspect. It’s disappointing but it just gives me more drive to go out there and really try and push myself and put my name up for the spot.”
“But a big focus this season is that I need to get stronger and get my fitness levels up and try and play consistently.”
With Australia missing out on direct qualification for the World Cup, the Socceroos have to navigate two sets of playoffs in October and November and Goodwin hopes to involved.
“Growing up it’s every kid’s dream to play for the national team and not just be involved in the squad by to play on a regular basis,” he said.
“Last season I felt that for the situation I was in, I put myself in a reasonable position to put my hand up. But obviously it’s the coach’s decision and he’s going to pick the squad and the players that he thinks is going to get us over the line.
“Obviously I want to make the squad and when it comes around again I want to put myself in the best position possible."
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