It's a little less than three years off and already the next World Cup is on the agenda.

It may well be the early stages of qualification, but it doesn't make it any less important for the Socceroos.

Games against the likes of Bangladesh and Tajikistan are ones we are undoubtedly expected to win.

In an improving Asian Confederation, sometimes it can be easier said than done, but on paper you'd think the Australian squad should have no such troubles.

Ange Postecoglou has selected a mix of tried and true regulars with a sprinkle of young, fringe players for the matches.

Expect him to follow that trend throughout the early rounds as we build towards a fourth straight Cup appearance.

For those coming in, it is a massive opportunity to stake their claim for even greater involvement over the next 24-months.

The likes of Chris Ikonomidis, Jackson Irvine, Alex Cisak and Luke Brattan are just some of the guys of that younger, less-experienced crop who will be out to leave an impression.

Then there is Tom Rogic.

He is a guy that really stands out in the squad.

After spending so much time in the last few years on the sidelines, I am aching to see him find his best in the green and gold.

There is no question of this guy's talent.

He has shown in a goal-scoring start to the season with Celtic that he could be beginning to find the form we've hoped to see from him for so long.

If he stays fit, he could prove to be a mainstay in the squad alongside fellow young guns like Massimo Luongo and Mat Ryan.

A minor injury will force Ryan to sit out the qualifiers but he looks likely to be a lock for the Australian number one spot when he is fit.

The move to Valencia in the off-season means he will be playing at the top level and in the UEFA Champions League.

His injury this time around will give a rare opportunity for someone to have a chance between the sticks.

Let's hopes it is South Coast product Adam Federici who gets it.