Porta puts ball in Osieck's court

The Sydney-born 29 year-old, who like Carle now plays in the UAE Pro-League, has long been touted as a solution to the Socceroos lack of a prolific front-man. 

Reluctant to join the chorus in Australia who have called for Porta's inclusion without actually having seen him play, I travelled to Dubai this month to watch "El Canguro" – a week after Football Federation Australia finally did - and can report he was very impressive.

Playing up front for Dubai Club as the most advanced option in a 4-2-3-1 Porta displayed an assured first touch – equally at home with either left or right foot - and worked overtime in both defence and attack to stay involved for a side that will struggle this season.

His movement – both lateral and vertical – was sharp, he's clearly a threat either on the ground or in the air and has the physical attributes and close control necessary to operate as a lone front-man. 

His goalscoring record is also outstanding.

After finishing last season as the top-scorer in Uruguay he's scored five goals from as many matches at his new club in the Emirates where he is using his Australian passport as an 'AFC Player'.

Given his age, he's certainly not a long-term prospect but is he good enough to compete in Brazil as a 31 year-old? 

It's certainly worth using next month's international in Korea to at least have a look, isn't it?

After his match against Alex Brosque's new side, Al Ain, I spoke exclusively with Porta on his move to the UAE, his former coach Diego Maradona and his hopes of finally being called up by the Socceroos.