Osieck, speaking in Seoul ahead of the Socceroos' East Asian Cup opener against South Korea on Saturday, revealed the veteran centre-back had not been considered for the squad as he conducts negotiations with clubs in the United States.

Neill's international team-mate Tim Cahill has thrived since moving from Everton to the New York Red Bulls, and it appears the former West Ham and Blackburn defender could now be joining him in North America.

"Lucas, after we terminated our qualifying campaign, went on a short vacation, to my knowledge in America, he is in contact with two clubs, is very likely to sign there, and was not available for the team," he said.