Australia coach Holger Osieck believes it would be a good idea for midfielder Matt McKay to play abroad during the A-League off-season.

The 28-year old Championship-winning Brisbane Roar captain has emerged as a key player for the Socceroos who will soon embark on their 2014 World Cup-qualifying process.

McKay stepped into the Australian team and did a great job in a few different positions at the Asian Cup in January and Osieck says it may be a good idea for him to continue playing rather than take the long break in between Australian domestic seasons.

"It's always detrimental to have that long break," Osieck said. "Hopefully we can find a good solution to compensate that.

"I don't want to get involved in club business or contractual business but technically it would be good for him to keep playing - that's for sure.

"He needs a break after that long intense season with lots of things happening for him.

"But I think after the appropriate break, he should get back into playing."