West Ham United striker Dylan Tombides has revealed his target of forcing his way into Australia's World Cup squad.
The 19-year old opted against playing for the Hammers in the FA Cup third round against Nottingham Forest on Sunday to travel to Oman to link up with the Australian squad for the 2014 AFC U22 Championships.
Tombides admits he had an important decision to make by putting his country before his club but he insists it is for the benefit of his international career as he chases a spot in Ange Postecoglou's playing roster for Brazil 2014.
"I had a bit of choice to make," Tombides, who has recently battled testicular cancer, told SBS.
"I know Sam Allardyce wanted youngsters involved and if I wasn't going away I think I may have got a chance.
"But I felt that going to Oman was a better option for the long-term with more game time potentially and it was the most sensible move for me.
"I just want to do well in Oman and hopefully get noticed by Ange Postecoglou because I am going to be doing all I can to be in with a shout of going to Brazil.
"It was a blow missing out in June (2013 FIFA U20 World Cup) and I am just excited to be flying out to catch up with my teammates and be a part of something which will hopefully show people what I can do again."
