Thompson and Tarek Elrich are both included in the squad to face Indonesia in the Asian Cup qualifier with Pim Verbeek having made positive noises about the versatility of both Newcastle Jets.

Thompson told the Herald: "I went into camp with the Socceroos this time last year and, to be fair, I think I was a bit overawed by the situation.

"Looking around I was thinking, 'Oh my god, look at all these quality players.'

"I thought I was there to make up the numbers. This time I can go there and perform and hopefully win a spot."

Coach Gary van Egmond is delighted to see the players getting the nod from Verbeek.

He said: "They have both re-invented themselves to a degree in their time at the club, with Thommo he started further forward and has done a job for us at left-back, and Tarek has done something similar at right-back. So it’s a sign of their versatility which is a strong asset in both of them.

“I know how hard they have both worked and it’s a great reward for persistence and work ethic."