Australia captain Lucas Neill admits the chance of making the World Cup squad is in players' thoughts despite tonight being an Asian Cup qualifier.

The Socceroos are in desperate need of a win against Oman at Etihad Stadium tonight and although the three points are more important than anything else, Neill says that getting into the 23-man squad for South Africa is something the players will definitely consider.

"That's always in the back of everybody's mind," the Everton man said.

"Every game we play now for Australia there's 30 plus players trying to make a squad of 23.

"Of course now the focus is trying to qualify for the Asian Cup but we always have to send a message to the manager that I want to be in this squad for as long as I can and obviously with a big, important tournament coming up, it's important to perform and take the chances that we get.

"That goes for every single player that is representing the country tomorrow night."

Australia are currently on the bottom of their group with one point from two matches whilst Oman have four points after a win and an away draw in their two outings.