The 24-year-old defender from a successful career in Japan to sign for Qatari outfit Al Arabi in a move which had many questioning his motives.

But while he has many compatriates in the region at the other end of their career like Lucas Neill, Mark Bresciano, Sasa Ognenovski and Nicky Carle, Spiranovic sees it as the start of something good.

“I’ve really enjoyed the move – new experience, new country, fresh start, so I’m looking forward to the season,” Spiranovic said.

“It’s great to have other Aussies there is Doha and I’m already catching up for lunches and barbecues.”

Spiranovic said the Socceroos 0-0 draw with Oman in June would put the Green and Gold in good stead for next week’s qualifier.

“I think there a lot of challenges off the field and the climate doesn’t make life easy for football but I think a lot of players have the experience now in this (region) which puts us in a good position,” he said.

Meanwhile Adam Sarota has credited his return to the Socceroos fold to his domestic form with FC Utrecht in the Eredivisie where he has become a regular starter in the Dutch topflight.

Now on the brink of earning only his third cap for his country Sarota, 23, said: “It feels great. I missed out on the last couple of camps so it’s good to be back in the picture.

“I’m trying to concentrate on Utrecht and play well and hopefully then I’ll always be a part of the Socceroos.”

The midfielder, who has fellow Aussies Michael Zullo and Tommy Oar playing for the same side, said he had benefited from a solid pre-season, and the two years’ experience playing for the club had helped him adapt to the league.

He added: “It took a while for me to get used to the football, the style of play.

“I think that’s why I’ve been starting because I understand the game there a lot better now.”