McGlinchey, 22, signed a two year deal with Central Coast Mariners just before the start of the season after impressing coach Lawrie McKinna and has been an instant hit the opening two matches.

Now that form has been rewarded with All Whites coach Ricki Herbert today naming the Wellington-born midfielder in his 18-man squad for a friendly against Jordan in Amman on Wednesday, September 9, subject to FIFA approval.

"It's a great honour," McGlinchey said. "Obviously I grew up in Scotland and represented at Under 20s level, but I was born in New Zealand and I just hope I can get on the park and do a good job for Ricki.

"I can't thank Lawrie enough. He's been great and gave me a chance to come over here and prove what I could do.

"I know I'm good enough, and I'm just looking forward to repaying the faith he's shown in me by representing the Mariners well when I play for New Zealand,."

McGlinchey was born in the New Zealand capital while his father Norman was playing for Lower Hutt and moved back to Scotland when he was a baby.

He progressed through the ranks at Celtic, making his first team debut against Livingstone as an 18 year old in 2005 but was released by the club at the end of last season.

Now enjoying life on the other side of the world, McGlinchey finds himself just two matches away from a possible place at the World Cup if the Kiwis can results in the two-leg play-off against either Bahrain or Saudi Arabia.

"If I can get on and do well in Jordan hopefully Ricki will look at me for the play-offs, and who knows after that," he said.

"As a wee lad you grow up watching the World Cup and it's what every footballer wants to be a part of.  If New Zealand can qualify over the two legs and I could get on the plane to South Africa then it would be a dream come true.

"But I can't get ahead of myself, hopefully get on and do well in Jordan, and continue doing well for the Mariners."

Mariners boss McKinna was delighted by the call-up and has paid tribute to his new signing's progress.

"He's been fantastic from the very first day he joined us, he fits in to the squad well on and off the park, and it's a good reward for him," her said.

"We play Perth in Canberra on the Friday night beforehand, and he'll be available to fly out after that, but it'll be a great experience for the lad and if he does well who knows? He could be off to the World Cup next year..."