Wellington Phoenix and New Zealand national coach Ricki Herbert has tipped two of his Phoenix charges as potential Socceroos. After defeating league leaders Melbourne Victory 2-1 at home on Friday night, Herbert lauded the performances of skipper Andrew Durante and midfielder Jon McKain.

Although Durante has just returned from injury, Herbert believes he is a great prospect for Socceroos coach Pim Verbeek and McKain's recent form warrants national selection in his eyes.

"As far as Durante and Jon McKain, those performances, it makes you really wonder how they are not part of a World Cup squad," Herbert said.

"I would say they have grown in the league. Both are new to this club, and I think both have really grabbed the moment in the last seven weeks and led from the front. A number of players have, but particularly these two." McKain last played for the Socceroos in 2006 and has been capped 12 times at senior level whilst Durante is yet to play for Australia.