The 31-year-old Sydney-born midfielder was a key member of the Socceroos side which reached the Round of 16 in Germany four years ago and hopes to build on those feats in South Africa.

"Since we participated in the last one in Germany football in Australia has really gone on leaps and bounds and if we can put in another good showing, it would really push football in Australia on to another level," Emerton told the Lancashire Telegraph.

"When I was growing up, the interest was nowhere near as much as it is now.

"Anyone who enjoyed their football would want to watch the World Cup but outside of that, not so much.

"Last time though even people who didn't like football, like the rugby and cricket fans, whatever sport, were really involved and got behind the team."

He continued: "It gripped the nation. I wasn't there because I was playing but the comparison a lot of people made was to the Olympics in 2000.

"My family and friends said Sydney was just buzzing. People were at the bars watching football matches."

He added: "Last time was really special. Us Aussies really enjoyed it and we played quite well in the tournament as well. If we play anywhere near as well as that I can't wait."

Emerton realises expectations from the Australian fans are high ahead of the 2010 World Cup, especially on the back of 2006's successes.

"It was difficult because all Aussies have a winning mentality. We don't like to lose.

"We are not quite there yet but we are making inroads and we continue doing the best we can and one day we will get there and compete with the likes of Brazil, Spain and England.

"We still have some way to go but we are on our way. I think experience means a lot in football. We have kept the majority of the team together for so long, the understanding is very good. As a team we are very hard to beat.

"As individuals we are good players, as a team we are as strong as anybody."