“I've spoken to Chippers [Scott Chipperfield] about getting a Wollongong side going,” the Wollongong born midfield man said today from Holland.

“It'd be nice to see a side there because there are a lot of people down there who play and enjoy their soccer. I guess time will tell on that one but I do follow the A-League.”

Wilkshire stopped short of committing as an investor in any potential south coast franchise but he added: “I could possibly be a player in years to come.”

The issue of A-League expansion has become a hot topic.

Before Wellington Phoenix was confirmed in March as the New Zealand franchise holder, both Wollongong and North Queensland's Tropical Football consortium in Townsville were interested in putting forward a proposal.

Wollongong has a rich history at club level. Wollongong Wolves was the national league champion in 2000 and 2001 (featuring local star Scott Chipperfield) although the club lacked a solid financial base.

With the A-League kicking off this Friday night, Juninho, one of Wilkshire's former teammates at Middlesbrough, will hold centre stage.

The 25-year-old FC Twente midfielder is upbeat about the Brazilian's impact as Sydney FC prepare to take on Central Coast Mariners at Sydney Football Stadium.

“With Juninho, there's no question he's a very talented player and a great guy,” said Wilkshire. "I've no doubt he'll be successful."

The Socceroo is expected to be named in the Aussie squad for next month's friendly with powerhouse Argentina at the MCG.

"Everyone wants to represent Australia and these are big games back home in Australia," he said. "Down in Melbourne with a massive crowd, everyone can look forward to that.

"The depth in the Argentine squad is phenomenal, it doesn't matter who they bring out, it'll be a tough game.”

He added: “Every game you play, you play to win and play well and this will be no different.

"After the disappointment of the Asian Cup, you want to get back and it's important we do that leading up the World Cup qualifiers.”