Almost eight years on from his sole Socceroos cap, Jason Geria hasn't closed the door on his national team dream.
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The Melbourne Victory right-back was called up as a 23-year-old under Ange Postecoglou for a friendly against Greece in 2016.
But a combination of injuries, form and a stint in the J2 League have kept him out of the frame since, with first Josh Risdon and Rhyan Grant, then more recently Nathaniel Atkinson, Ryan Strain and Lewis Miller, preferred ahead of him.
After overcoming a hip injury that ruined last season for the defender, Geria is back flying for Victory.
And with teammate Bruno Fornaroli as inspiration, the 31-year-old Geria still dares to dream of a Socceroos recall.
"I don't think that's something that's ever out of any Australian player's mind, in the back of their mind," Geria told AAP.
"It's something we all want to do, I'm no different. But it's not in my hands. I can't control who they pick for the team, so I can't really spend too much time focusing on that.
"The way to get back into the national team is just by focusing on your club.
"You've seen it with guys like Bruno, who's someone who 99 per cent of the public would have written off - but he focused on his football and you make a case that they can't ignore."
Geria has shone at right-back, but also chipped in on the left when needed.
"I'm feeling really good in how I play and that's down to the boss and the things we do at training, and my teammates as well," he said.
"It's a joy to play with these guys, and that's reflecting in some of my performances."
Victory can no longer win the A-League Men premiers' plate, or finish in the top two. But ending the regular season third or fourth would guarantee a home elimination final.
"This squad is definitely one that can win something," Geria said.
"That's why it is disappointing that we're out of the race for the plate, I really thought we could win that.
"But there's still a lot to play for."
The first hurdle comes in the shape of the Brisbane Roar, who beat Victory 3-2 in March, at AAMI Park on Saturday.
"It was probably one of the worst games we played this year. We didn't really do ourselves proud up there," Geria said, reflecting on that Suncorp Stadium reverse.
"So we have a big opportunity to right that wrong, and more so just trying to get some momentum going into the finals."
Australian Associated Press
