Soccer: Phoenix striker on radar for qualifier

All Whites Coach Ricki Herbert (pictured) admits he would have no hesitation in calling on 19-year-old Kris Bright if the need arises. Photo / Getty Images

Livewire Wellington Phoenix striker Costa Barbarouses is not in Ricki Herbert's extended 23-strong All Whites squad for next week's World Cup eliminator with Bahrain but Herbert admits he would have no hesitation in calling on 19-year-old if the need arises.

"Kris Bright is the attacking cover among the five players we have on standby but if something happens between now and the game and I could see a benefit in having Costa in the squad I certainly would do it," said Herbert, who last week named 18 players (and five as back-up) for next Saturday's Cup clash at Westpac Stadium.

"I thought he did very well against Newcastle and he could start again on Sunday [in the A-League game against Perth]."

All Whites/Phoenix goalkeeper Mark Paston continues his recovery from the hip injury sustained in last Sunday's 3-1 loss to Sydney FC and could play tomorrow.

"If he is fit, he will play," said Herbert. "No player is being put in cotton wool. I expect them all to play for their clubs this weekend if selected."

Only Simon Elliott and Andy Boyens will not see any action. Their MLS season is over and they are in Wellington awaiting their All Whites team-mates - most of whom are expected to join Herbert and his management team on Monday.

"We have monitored a lot of players in recent weeks getting regular medical updates. Provided they come through this weekend unscathed, we will be ready for a full training session on Tuesday."

Herbert has also pencilled in two sessions for Wednesday, another on Thursday and a light session at the match venue on Friday.

Asked whether the naming of Uruguayan referee Jorge Larrionda to control the tie would alter his approach to the game, Herbert said he had no reservations in accepting the appointment. "He has refereed at the highest level," said Herbert. "I don't foresee any problems."

Larrionda has a reputation for flashing red cards including three in the match between the United States and Italy at the 2006 World Cup.

Meanwhile, Bahrain continued their build-up to the match with a friendly against African nation Togo at the National Stadium in Manama.

Coach Milan Macala had 21 of his players available for that match and will have his full complement of 26 on hand today and ready for tomorrow's flight by private jet to Sydney where they will spend four days in camp before flying to Wellington on Thursday.

The second allotment of 500 extra seats at the stadium went on sale yesterday morning and were snapped up in just six minutes earning New Zealand Football a cool $19,500 and taking the crowd to a 36,000 capacity.