Socceroos Coach Pim Verbeek today overlooked the trio when he announced his preliminary 31 man squad in Sydney.

Disappointed not to be selected, all three players wished the Qantas Socceroos well for the World Cup and congratulated their peers on selection.

"I would've loved to gone to South Africa but unfortunately it wasn't to be," said Glory skipper Burns. 
"I'd like to thank Pim for all his support and hope Australia has a great tournament."

It's a bitter pill to swallow for Burns, Sterjovski and Coyne after the three returned from Europe to play in the Hyundai A-League last season.

Desperate to play in South Africa, Burns and Sterjovski spent the past month in England training with Premier League clubs Fulham and Blackburn while Coyne secured a loan deal in the Chinese Super League.

"It's gut wrenching for the players but it's a credit to them for doing everything possible to represent their country," said Glory Chief Executive Paul Kelly.

"Their commitment to Australia and the Qantas Socceroos has been first class

Sterjovski, who played at the 2006 World Cup, was also naturally disappointed to miss out on the tournament but the star forward is now keen on helping Perth Glory win their first A-League title.

Former Perth Glory striker Nikita Rukavytsya was named in squad along with fellow West Australians Rhys Williams and Brad Jones, Richard Garcia and Shane Lowry.