Although the defender made no secret of his desire to try his luck in Europe, nothing materialised before the transfer window slammed shut last month.

However, van Egmond has had several discussions with his captain since and believes North is ‘fine’ - and looking forward to the challenge of an A-League title defence.

Chris Coyne has emerged as a rival for a spot in the centre of the Socceroos defence while Matthew Spiranovic is also banging on the door but van Egmond says North just needs to focus on his own game.

He told au.fourfourtwo.com: “I spoke to Jade over the phone while he was away with the Socceroos. He is fine and we’re happy to have his leadership.”

North and Ante Covic were the only A-League-based players in the last squad but van Egmond has pointed out that overseas action is no guarantee of regular international football.

The Jets boss points to a former Jet now plying his trade in England. Van Egmond said: “Nick Carle forced his way into the Socceroos while here at Newcastle.

" He decided to move on to Europe and while he’s been involved, I’m sure he’d have liked more time on the pitch.

“Maybe players think they have to go overseas (to get international recognition) but I don’t think that’s always the case.

“Jade has already shown Pim Verbeek what he can do and he got into the squad by doing well for Newcastle Jets. That’s what he has to carry on doing.”