Brett Emerton says he is happy with the decision of Australian national team coach Holger Osieck to drop him for the upcoming double header.
The former Blackburn Rovers midfielder has been left out of the Socceroos squad for Friday's friendly with Malaysia and Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Oman but he feels it is a wise choice as it leaves him to make his mc uh-awaited Sydney FC debut against Melbourne Victory and their star signing Harry Kewell in the A-League on Saturday.
"I stayed totally out of it," Emerton said Osieck's decision. "I left the decision solely up to Holger and I would've respected his decision either way.
"But I think at this time, for football in this country, it's a great decision and I've got to thank him for allowing me to play (for Sydney). It should be a good spectacle."
He added: "I didn't think myself coming back would generate as much interest as it has but obviously coinciding with Harry's return as well it's been something really special for the game and something you couldn't have scripted any better.
"I'm just happy for football here that it's finally getting some recognition. Hopefully with our performances on the park and going out there in the community as well, we can continue the interest in our game and help it grow."
Sydney are away to the Victory in opening weekend of the 2011/12 A-League season at Etihad Stadium this Saturday night.