Ifill's ultimate goal is to return to action with the Wellington Phoenix. It's not out of the question - the club would look at all possibilities, including an incentive-based, match payments deal - but his A-League return hinges on two factors.
The first is obvious. The 34-year-old needs to recover from his Achilles tendon injury, one of the worst that can befall a footballer, especially an older player.
The second factor is how he would fit into the roster. Coach Ernie Merrick is keen to have him back - apart from being a crowd favourite, he would be a great impact player - but finding a place for the former Millwall and Crystal Palace player won't be easy.
This season's five visa spots are taken, with Dutchman Roly Bonevacia joining Albert Riera, Kenny Cunningham, Roy Krishna and Alex Rodriguez in Wellington. Ifill might sign at some stage as an injury-replacement player and the other option will depend on when Ifill is classed as a local.
To be defined as a non-import player, Ifill has to be a New Zealand citizen. He became a resident only last month, so will need to prove 'special circumstances' to fast track a citizenship application.
Ifill says his recovery is "on track". He's running, biking, swimming and cross training up to four hours a day.
"It's hard sometimes," Ifill says. "Occasionally, you lose your mind. I've been a professional footballer for 16 years and I just want to play again."
Ifill says the pain is "mostly gone" in the Achilles but the calf muscle needs strengthening to support the tendon and ligaments around it.
He enjoyed his recent stint as a commentator and analyst during the Football United tour but isn't ready to make a permanent switch to the microphone and jacket just yet.
"Other players who have had the same injury have given me a lot of hope," Ifill says. "They say it's difficult but you get there. I hope to be back near a training field in the next two months."
