Ajdin Hrustic wasn’t part of the side that helped Australia qualify for next year’s World Cup.
But the attacking midfielder has no intention of missing out on the final squad in 2026, adamant he can re-establish himself as a key part of Tony Popovic’s plans for the tournament.
Hrustic is hoping that a permanent move to Eredivisie side Heracles can reignite his career after struggling to kick on with Italian outfit Verona.
The 29-year-old was viewed as one of Australia’s most creative weapons at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and is keen to impress in Friday’s friendly with New Zealand in Canberra.
“To sign at a new club and go back to Heracles, I’m enjoying my football and daily life again,” Hrustic said.
“When I came back I had a call and I thought it over for a few days.
“It was a perfect moment and the right moment to take a step back to Heracles, looking towards the World Cup.
“Game time, minutes, performance - there are a lot of boys who are hungry and ready to go so I’m going to try and make sure I’m fit and healthy.”
Hrustic - a veteran of 31 caps - is one of the most experienced players called into Popovic’s squad, which boasts seven uncapped Australians.
But his role as a Socceroos regular has never been more under threat with the likes of Nestory Irankunda and Adrian Segecic begining life with a bang in the English Championship this season.
“You see this squad, there’s a lot of young and hungry boys who want to show themselves,” Hrustic said.
“When you put on the green and gold, you can’t think of it as a friendly.
“They have to know what it means to wear the green and gold, I’m sure they’re going to pick it up very quickly.”
