Robbie Kruse and Alex Brosque are determined to show Romania just how dangerous they can be in front of goal.
Australia's attack force is determined to make an impression against Romania in Malaga tomorrow night (Thursday morning AEDT).
Not that goal scoring hasn't become custom of late for Alex Brosque and Robbie Kruse, who have each found top form at their respective clubs. Kruse in particular has been in career best touch for Bundesliga outfit Fortuna Dusseldorf, for whom he bagged a double against traditional heavyweights Stuttgart at the weekend.
Kruse's brace took his season tally to four, further evidence that the former Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory marksman has truly emerged as one of Australia's most exciting young talents.
“Fortunately I-ve played a lot this season and I-ve been playing fairly well,” said Kruse, who despite being amongst Australia's best in recent matches has yet to net in green and gold since a friendly away to Wales in August 2011.
“It-s (Germany-s Bundesliga) a great league to play in.
“It-s a massive honour to be able to step foot on the field with some amazing players and to score goals is always good, but it-s important for our club to keep picking up wins.
“I-ve played a few good games for the Socceroos but hopefully I can keep getting better and better, it-s vital for us to make the next FIFA World Cup and to really keep building on the momentum that football in Australia has done.”
Fellow striker Brosque has adjusted seamlessly to his new surrounds at Al Ain, having found the back of the net eight times since joining the UAE Pro-League.
Most recently, Brosque slotted the second goal of a 4-0 league triumph over Ajman on Australia Day, a result that keeps his club on track for its eleventh domestic title and back-to-back AFC Champions League qualifications.
On the international front, Brosque's prolific steak has dimmed somewhat after his stunning re-emergence as a senior international in late 2011.
With that in mind, the 29-year-old, along with team-mates, had heeded coach Holger Osieck's call for renewed focus and energy with the Qantas Socceroos' selection options having duly expanded after impressive showings by experimental line ups in the Korea Republic and Hong Kong recently.
“I think the pressure is definitely there, it-s healthy and it-s good competition, especially after the tournament the boys played in Hong Kong,” said Brosque.
“I think a lot of boys really came on in that camp and did very well.
“There-s a lot of young players as well that are really starting to find their feet in Europe as well and get some moves and have some good quality game time.
“I think it-s only positive, it-s only good to have that, because it keeps everyone on their toes, it-s keeps you hungry and wanting to keep your spot and at the end of the day, we-re all mates, but we do all know that it-s about performing and it-s about doing your job.”
The Qantas Socceroos will face the challenge of Romania in a friendly international at the Estadio Ciudad de Malaga on Wednesday, 6 February.
Kick off is at 8.45pm local time (Thursday, 7 February 6.45am AEDT).
Next month, the Qantas Socceroos resume their FIFA World Cup qualification quest against Oman at Sydney-s Stadium Australia on Tuesday, 26 March. Kick off is at 7.30pm local time.
Tickets for this match are on sale now through Ticketek