Cahill 'privileged' to be part of Caltex Socceroos' success

Tim Cahill says the Caltex Socceroos' qualification for the FIFA World Cup is the culmination of a plan implemented by Ange Postecoglou in 2013.

Australia's all-time leading goalscorer shook off an ankle concern to start at Stadium Australia, where three second half goals sealed a trip to Russia.

And Cahill, who has netted at three consecutive World Cups, always expected to be in contention for a fourth when Postecoglou was appointed.

"When the boss spoke to me four years ago about the journey, and he told me what we were going to do, I believed him," he told Fox Sports. 

"To be standing here today, it doesn’t feel like a surprise. It feels like it was meant to be.

"I’m just so privileged to still be playing and be part of such an amazing group of lads."

Despite being second only to Mark Schwarzer on the national team's list of most appearances, Cahill insists he feels as fit and fresh as ever.

"I feel like a young kid even though I’m 38 next month," the Melbourne City star said.

"I take great pride in being part of this and I can’t thank everyone enough who played a part in getting my ankle right.

"To help my country qualify for four World Cups is something I’ll be very proud of when I get older … even older!"