Central Coast Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna believes Matt Simon will make a super impression for the Socceroos in tonight's Asian Cup qualifier against Kuwait.

Simon is likely to start after the withdrawal of Melbourne Victory striker Danny Allsopp and McKinna believes it is a great opportunity for the 23-year old.

"As soon as I heard Allsopp was out I knew Matty would start," McKinna told Goal.com.

"He'll use his physical presence tonight.

"It's his first start for the Socceroos, he's got a high work rate and I'm sure he'll be up for it tonight and definitely will be a handful for Kuwait."