Osieck backing for McDonald

Having scored a stack of goals in Scotland over the years, McDonald has found the step up from club to international level difficult in terms of goalscoring.

The former Celtic marksman has not netted in his 16 appearances for the Socceroos.

The Middlesbrough striker's barren trot saw him overlooked for this year's World Cup and there had been questions raised about his international future.

However Osieck has thrown him a lifeline by naming him in the national squad for the pair of friendlies against Switzerland at the AFG Arena and Poland in Krakow.

Osieck said he liked the energetic striker's game.

"He looks like that kind of striker who can be annoying to any defence and I like that style of play," he said.

"I rather have him in my team than in the opposition's team and I am hoping that he will show his potential when he gets the opportunity to play."

Switzerland is expected to play a largely second-string side against Australia with a 2012 Euro qualifier against England next week in Basel.

Mark Schwarzer, who has sat out the opening three matches of the English Premier League due to a back injury and transfer speculation, moved freely at training.

The Fulham goalkeeper is expected to start against the Swiss and have the chance to shake off the frustration at being denied a move to Arsenal earlier this week.

Australia's match against Switzerland starts at 8.15pm (4.15am Sat AEST).