Culina links up with PSV

Culina revealed his brief return to his former club after receiving the major award at A-League club Gold Coast United's inaugural player of the year function.

“The decision to go to PSV was made with Pim’s blessing and we both thought it was a very good idea for me to train at a very high level with a top European club," Culina said.

Culina explained he had previously fielded offers to play in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, but wanted to stay in Australia until the end of Gold Coast's A-League season to honour his marquee player contract there.

“I had the option of going to Europe in January and to the Middle East or Asia a few weeks ago, but I declined those offers as PSV was always in the back of my mind.

While admitting it was not ideal for him not to be playing matches, Culina said it was the best option because he was familiar with the set-up at PSV and the training would be at a "high level".

“My decision was made easier by the standard of football in Holland and the quality of the training, which with all due respect, is higher than what I would find in Asia or the Middle East.

“I know the area, I know everyone there and they know me, so the transition will hardly be felt at all, which allows me to just slip right in and concentrate on doing what I’m there to do.”

Australia coach Pim Verbeek had told Socceroos' contenders at A-League sides who had not qualified for the Asian Champions League that they needed to join other clubs for the next few months to enhance their prospects of gaining a berth in the World Cup squad.