Pantelis and Madaschi were in the same under 17s squad that suffered final heartache against Brazil in 1999 and were Young Socceroos teammates again when Australia competed in 2001's Under 20 World Cup in Argentina.  

Madaschi is the real bolter in Verbeek's latest squad, currently earning his living playing for third tier Italian side Portogruara-Summaga.

Perth-born Madaschi made his senior international debut for the Socceroos in 2004 against New Zealand, at the OFC Nations Cup in Adelaide, which was part of the qualification process for the 2006 World Cup. His last match for the Socceroos was against Fiji at the same tournament.

Pantelis is heartened that the Socceroo boss clearly has his spies everywhere.   The Adelaide United vice captain told au.fourfourtwo.com today: "I remember Adrian coming into the squad (for the under 17s) and he was certainly one of the boys who really shone for us.  

"He was a big, strong boy even then and had a very good touch for a big defender.I'm very happy for him and I'm sure he'll be looking forward to the challenge."  

While no A-League players (aside from Gold Coast United new boy Jason Culina) have made Verbeek's latest squad, Pantelis doesn't feel downhearted or pessimistic.  

He said: "I think you look at the situation and think that if you're doing well for your club, wherever that is, then you have a chance (of making a Verbeek squad). There is that glimmer of hope."  

Pantelis also believes an extended A-League season can help the international claims of home-based players.

"With A-League, finals and the Asian Champions League you could be getting closer to 32 or more games a season. That's getting closer to the situation in Europe. We're getting there," he said.