Since linking up ahead of the 2006 World Cup, Brett Emerton and Luke Wilkshire have developed a fantastic understanding of each other's games, switching around constantly and keeping opposition players guessing on which one is attacking and which one is defending.

They possesses a complementary skill set, with Emerton's athletic, robust and attacking approach to his game offset by Wilkshire's solid defence, superb ball delivery and commendable work ethic.

But despite being two of Australia's most influential players, it has been a while since they have last played on a pitch together. It was in Oman in November last year where they both scored as Australia claimed an important 2-1 win in an Asian Cup qualifier.

Various injuries have meant Emerton has only started in two of the past 18 Socceroos matches since he scored a double against Qatar in a World Cup qualifier in October 2008.

After a World Cup build-up which has been marred by a calf injury, a now fully-fit Emerton can't wait to link up with his right-minded friend again.

"I love playing with Luke, I think over the past couple of years, playing with him has been a real pleasure, We have a great understanding and unfortunately we haven't played with each other in the build up. But we know each other's games very well and I think as soon as we get back together, we'll click again," he said.

Emerton has known for a long time what everybody else is now talking about - Wilkshire is a crucial cog in Australia's side.

On Sunday against Germany, Emerton and Wilkshire will be given the gig of limiting the influence of Germany's Lukas Podolski, who has been a fantastic performer for his country over the past five years.

Emerton has backed Wilkshire to not only limit Podolski's influence on the game, but also have an impact himself.

"I think he's a very talented player and obviously one of their danger men. So somebody will have to keep an eye on him. Luke will be directly up against him, but I think Luke's in fantastic form. I think as he shown in the last three games. I can't see any reason why he won't do a good job out there," he said.