Perth Glory captain Jacob Burns is keeping his World Cup chances alive despite being left out of the past few Australian squads. The 31-year old midfielder left Europe to join the Glory in May this year in what some described as a risky step, going back to his homeland whilst at the height of his powers.

But Burns, who has showed indifferent form so far this season, does not rue making the move back to Australia and says the fact he is playing in the A-League should not harm his Socceroos chances although if it does, he is happy he has returned home.

"I've been blessed with 10 years overseas," said Burns.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time overseas but I'm thoroughly enjoying being here with my family.

"Perth is a great club and this is something I'd looked forward to doing.

"If it jeopardises playing for Australia, so be it. I can only keep playing my game."

As things will start to heat up early next year in regards to players vying for World Cup squad places, those playing in Australia may need to seek alternative options to prolong their season so that they are playing almost the whole year round.

In Burns' case, it may be going out on loan to one of two rival A-League clubs who will be involved in the Asian Champions League - Adelaide United and Melbourne Victory.

"You try not to think of the loan. But it's been our dream for the past couple of years to go to the World Cup in South Africa," Burns said.

"We've been told the key to it is staying fit at the end of the season and who we go on loan with. So you keep that in the back of your mind and keep positive about it."