Wilkshire: We will bounce back

Australia’s friendly against Argentina will provide the perfect opportunity to put the Asian Cup disappointment behind them, according to Qantas Socceroo Luke Wilkshire.

Australia-s friendly against Argentina will provide the perfect opportunity to put the Asian Cup disappointment behind them, according to Qantas Socceroo Luke Wilkshire.

The September 11 clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, which is selling fast , is a classic David vs Goliath clash, but after what happened in Bangkok and the Hanoi, Wilkshire how no doubts the players will be looking to earn some respectability back from the demanding Australian public.

“Every team you play, you play to win and to play well,” he said from his base in Holland, where he plays for FC Twente. “This game is going to be no different.

“After the disappointment of the Asian Cup you want to get back (to winning ways) ... and it's important we do that, leading up to the (World Cup) qualifiers that are coming up (early next year).

"Hopefully we're going to get a massive crowd. It's something everyone can look forward to, both the spectators and the players," he added.

Wilkshire confirmed, if selected, that he will be available for the match and can-t see any reason why the majority of the Asian Cup squad won-t be there as well.

"I'm guessing that anyone who's not injured would probably be there," he said. "Anyone who knows the players, knows that everyone wants to represent Australia, especially in games like these big games in Australia - everyone enjoys that."

Wilkshire is excited by the prospect of facing off against one of the best teams in the world, who were surprisingly beaten by Norway overnight 2-1 in Oslo.

“There is no doubt that, they are one of the top teams in the world,” he replied, when asked if Argentina will be a huge test. “The depth in their squad is phenomenal, so no matter who they bring out, it's going to be a tough game."

Wilkshire-s season kicked off last weekend, with FC Twente starting well with a 2-0 away from home and Luke playing in a more forward role, which he enjoyed.

His versatility within the Australian team helps his cause and during the Asian Cup, he played in several positions.

He was however keen to see the likes of Craig Moore and Scott Chipperfield return to the fold, after they missed the Asia Cup finals.

“Hopefully they are available for selection,” Wilkshire said. “Everyone will say you-d want them around; it-s their experience and quality they bring to the team.

“Everyone wants the best team on the pitch and the best players to be selected. I think those two are part of that.”

Tickets for the match are selling fast and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.au