In the quest for success, All Whites coach Ricki Herbert has some crucial selection dilemmas to solve. The defensive trio appears set in stone (Winston Reid, Ryan Nelsen, Tommy Smith), while Mark Paston remains first choice in goal. Michael McGlinchey is a certainty in centre midfield, while Shane Smeltz (23 goals in 48 international games) is always one of the first names on Herbert's team sheet.
Left-sided wing back
Since his debut in 2003, Tony Lochhead has been a consistent performer for the All Whites but continues to polarise fans. He is probably not as bad as his detractors believe, nor as good as his appearance record for club and country indicates (though the Phoenix have consistently struggled in his absence). Lochhead does struggle against top quality opposition and would be a gamble for these matches, though Herbert has precious few other options. Ian Hogg made a promising start to his international career (vs El Salvador) and his pace would be an asset. Though he lacks international experience, his time with Portland Timbers (MLS) should hugely help his development.
Right-sided wing back
Leo Bertos filled this role in South Africa and remains Herbert's go-to man for this difficult position on the flank, though, like Lochhead, his international performances have been unconvincing in the past 18 months. Jeremy Brockie has been used occasionally in the position (though it would be a hard transition from his current striking role at the Phoenix). Marco Rojas may be an option for the second leg at home if goals are needed.
