Schwarzer's report card on the Hyundai A-League

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Taking time out of his Socceroos training camp in Mierlo, Netherlands, goal keeper, Mark Schwarzer, has described the Hyundai A-League as a "massive success".

The Socceroos are in Mierlo to prepare for an international friendly match against the Netherlands on Sunday morning (Australian time) ahead of a crucial 2010 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifier in Tashkent, Uzbekistan the following Thursday morning (Australian time).

"I try to catch the Hyundai A-League highlights in England. "I think it's improving all the time, and it's important it does that," Schwarzer said.

"What is really clear from the broadcasts I've seen is that the support is growing and growing. The performances are getting better; there are more and more players going back to play in Australia; Australian players are improving all the time; and there's also some good foreign players this season who add some interest."

Schwarzer also said that having former players, such as his team mate and former Socceroo captain, Paul Okon, involved in coaching will also add to the attraction of the Hyundai A-League. Okon was announced yesterday as the assistant coach of one of the two new Hyundai A-League clubs, Gold Coast United, to enter the competition next season.

"I think it's very good news.

"'Paolo' was a very, very talented footballer and he has so much knowledge of the game.

"He not only will have connections with other players but he also has good name in Belgium and Italy."

Schwarzer said that the key is to make sure the Hyundai A-League improves year after year.

"That is what is happening and so far it's been a massive success."

In the meantime, Schwarzer anticipates a tough assignment on Sunday morning when the Socceroos line up against the Netherlands.

"They are a very strong side and did very well at the Euros.

"We like to go into friendlies with the attitude of wanting to win every game, but our focus is on the game on Wednesday against Uzbekistan."

The Socceroos will meet the Netherlands on Saturday night in Eindhoven (4.45am AEST Sunday 7 September) before heading to Tashkent to face Uzbekistan in their Round 4 - 2010 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifier on Wednesday 10 September (Thursday 11 September AEST).

All Socceroos matches are broadcast live and exclusive on FOX SPORTS.