Vukovic, 31, was on Wednesday named in Ange Postecoglou’s extended 30-man squad for the upcoming 2018 World Cup qualifiers against Iraq and UAE.

The shot-stopper was reluctant to get too carried away, with Postecoglou to trim the squad for 30 to 23 next week, with no guarantees he’ll make the final cut.

However the call-up was Vukovic’s first since the Pim Verbeek days, when he was part of an A-League squad which faced Kuwait in Canberra in March 2009.

Eight years, four A-League clubs and two overseas journeys later, he’s earned a recall having never been capped.

“It’s very exciting,” Vukovic said. “I felt as though my time had been and gone in the national team.

“I felt a little bit like I’d blown an opportunity there.

“It feels like this is a second chance, if I’m part of that final 23-man squad.

“I’m really honoured to be selected.”

He added: “Last time I was in camp was (eight) years ago. When you haven’t been back in the squad for that long you start getting thoughts that that might be it.

“I certainly had hope after the season I’ve had. I think I’m playing the best football I’ve ever played.

“I certainly had hope but there were doubts. I was very happy to hear the news.”

Vukovic’s move to his hometown Sydney from Melbourne Victory in the off-season has been a major catalyst for his return to top form.

The illness of his young son Harley had led Vukovic and his wife Kristy to return to Sydney to be around family.

In late January, Harley received a liver transplant, providing the family which much-needed positive news.

“When things are good off the pitch, you can generally put your best foot forward on the pitch,” Vukovic said.

“Things have fallen in to place nicely in Sydney for me and my family.

“I’ve been able to concentrate on my football, regain my form and my confidence.

“Sydney FC threw me a lifeline and I’m very grateful for that.”