Socceroos coach Graham Arnold holds no grudge against star midfielder Tom Rogic for leaving the Socceroos late in their World Cup qualifying campaign.
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The former Celtic midfielder withdrew just before Australia's World Cup qualifiers in May, citing personal reasons which haven't been made public.
Rogic was not included in a 31-man Socceroos squad for looming games against New Zealand.
The squad was announced on Wednesday, a day after Rogic confirmed a move to West Bromwich Albion in the English Championship.
Arnold says overlooking Rogic for the fixtures against the All Whites on September 22 in Brisbane and September 25 in Auckland was due to lack of recent game-time.
"He's a player that's top quality. He brings a lot to the national team," Arnold told reporters.
"At this moment, he hasn't been selected for New Zealand because he hasn't kicked the ball in a game since May."
Rogic contacted Arnold to inform of his move to West Brom.
"He called me to tell me the news," said Arnold.
"It's all about Tommy getting out there and working hard and making sure he's in the best form of his life.
"We need our best players."
Rogic had made himself available for the World Cup in Qatar starting in late November, Arnold said.
"I never doubted in any way or any time that that wasn't the case," he said.
"He loves the Socceroos. He has given 10 years of commitment to the Socceroos and has never waned.
"He doesn't need to explain. The most important thing for me is that he's happy."
Australian Associated Press
