Soccer: Herbert's new look squad

Marco Rojas. Photo / Getty Images

It's not quite out with the old and in with the new, but there is a refreshing look to the 18-man squad All Whites coach Ricki Herbert has named for next week's one-off friendly with China.

In naming newcomers Marco Rojas, Jake Gleeson and Michael Fitzgerald, recalling Kosta Barbarouses after his one appearance and giving Aaron Clapham another taste at this level, Herbert has shown his hand.

But he hinted there might be nothing too radical in his starting line-up.

"We won't assemble until Wednesday and might only have two training sessions, so the feeling is there is going to be a very familiar look about this team," he said.

"I would love to give them all a chance and some time on the pitch.

"In past friendlies like this, we have been able to use up to seven substitutes; hopefully we can do that again."

While experienced midfielders Tim Brown and Simon Elliott have not been included, there is plenty of potential in players such as McGlinchey and Rojas in midfield and Barbarouses up front where he will get his chance alongside strikers Shane Smeltz, Chris Killen, Rory Fallon and Chris Wood.

Herbert, who has selected Fitzgerald "sight unseen", is looking forward to seeing the Japan-based fullback in action.

"I haven't seen Michael play at all. I am looking forward to finding someone to fill that attacking role at right back, especially as we look ahead to the World Cup," said Herbert.

All Whites v ChinaWuhan Sports Centre Stadium,
March 25, 7.30pm (12.30am March 26 NZ time).

Goalkeepers: Glen Moss (Gold Coast United), Jake Gleeson (Portland Timbers).

Defenders: Tony Lochhead (Wellington Phoenix), Ivan Vicelich (Auckland City), Ryan Nelsen (Blackburn Rovers), Andy Boyens (Chivas), Tommy Smith (Ipswich Town), Michael Fitzgerald (Albirex Niigata).

Midfielders: Michael McGlinchey (Central Coast Mariners), Jeremy Brockie (Newcastle Jets), David Mulligan (Auckland City), Aaron Clapham (Canterbury United), Marco Rojas (Melbourne Victory).

Strikers: Shane Smeltz (Gold Coast United), Rory Fallon (Plymouth Argyle), Chris Killen (Shenzhen Ruby), Chris Wood (Brighton and Hove Albion), Kosta Barbarouses (Brisbane Roar).