"It's very timely. These are two very important games for New Zealand so it's great to get to this point with selection options," Herbert said.

"I personally have never, and the team hasn't either, underestimated the challenge of these qualifying games."

New Zealand Football CEO Michael Glading said a fully-fit Ryan Nelsen - who has missed the All Whites first three qualifying wins - had reaffirmed his commitment to the All Whites cause.

"I've spoken with Ryan since the Olympics - as has Ricki - and he's over the injury that's kept him out of the campaign so far and looking forward to getting back in the environment."

Goalkeepers: Glen Moss (Wellington Phoenix), Mark Paston (Wellington Phoenix)

Defenders: Andrew Boyens (New York Red Bulls), Tony Lochhead (Wellington Phoenix), David Mulligan (Wellington Phoenix), Ryan Nelsen (Blackburn Rovers), Steven Old (Macarthur Rams), Ben Sigmund (Wellington Phoenix)

Midfielders: Leo Bertos (Wellington Phoenix), Tim Brown (Wellington Phoenix), Jeremy Christie (Wellington Phoenix), Simon Elliott (Unattached), Chris James (Tampere United), Duncan Oughton (Columbus Crew), Allan Pearce (Waitakere United)

Forwards: Chris Killen (Celtic FC), Shane Smeltz (Wellington Phoenix), Jarrod Smith (Toronto FC)

The All Whites are just one win away from a spot in the 2009 Confederations Cup and a two-legged playoff with the fifth best team from Asia for a place at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The crucial clashes take place in Noumea on September 6 and at North Harbour stadium four days later.