Western Sydney Wanderers defender Matthew Spiranovic has been a main-stay in Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou’s backline, developing a formidable central partnership with Trent Sainsbury at the Asian Cup.
The 26-year-old played every minute of the tournament bar Australia’s quarter-final win over China, which he missed through suspension.
He also played the 90-minutes in each of the Socceroos’ three group matches at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Spiranovic made his name in Germany where he spent four seasons with FC Nürnberg before going out on loan to the J-League’s Urawa Red Diamonds in 2010.
His move to Japan became permanent, where he spent three seasons, followed by a stint with Qatar outfit AlArabi SC.
The 26-capped Socceroo returned home in 2013 and has been a linchpin for the Wanderers since their formation.
Spiranovic helped the club claim the Premiership in their inaugural season, qualify for back-to-back grand finals and become the 2014 ACL winners.