Canberra's next Socceroo is..

Nikolai Topor-Stanley.

It's surely a no-brainer. The Olyroos and Perth Glory's left-back is clearly pushing hard for a place.

Sydney FC fans mocked me when I suggested this some time back. But this season Topor-Stanley continues to impress.


Only David Carney really stands in his way unless Scott Chipperfield returns...and Chippers won't be here for every or maybe any games next year.

Carney is hardly playing for Sheffield United. A level of football which might make him rich but not a better player. And with such limited game time at left-back he will need to be playing club football to impress the new coach, whoever it is.

Carney has played a couple of games at left-back for the Socceroos but Topor-Stanley's experience in the position once the Olyroo games pass may get him the place.

The Mariners Dean Heffernan is somewhat eratic this season, particularly when defending, Shane Stefanutto is playing in Norway. Who else is there?

With so few lefties around, and so many World Cup qualifiers to come, Topor-Stanley will get a chance.

Not only is he keeping the likes of Danny Allsopp and rising star Robbie Kruse quiet, he even has time to create exquisite crosses for Jamie Harnwell.

And how many times have you seen an exquisite cross in the A-League this season from anyone?

So Nikolai Topor-Stanley is Canberra's next Socceroo. You know it makes sense.