Former All Whites captain Tommy Smith could be on the cusp of an unlikely return to the national squad.
The Ipswich Town defender fell from grace for what coach Anthony Hudson perceived as a lack of commitment to the All Whites after requesting to be ignored for selection for a 12-month period, and was since overlooked for the OFC Nations Cup back in May of this year.
However, Hudson has revealed he has been in talks with Smith and it seems he could be set to make a comeback.
"I've had a good meeting with him, I've come back to New Zealand and my focus has been purely on preparing for this window" said Hudson.
"He's a good character, it's not like he's a bad character.
Smith was one of the team's key players during the 2010 FIFA World Cup but hasn't played for the All Whites since 2014.
"I've spoken to the senior players in the team already.
"I've got their feedback, all of them have expressed they back my judgement on the situation and they're happy with what I decide based upon my conversations and how I see the situation.
"The decision will be made upon the best interests of the team, whether he comes back or not."
Newshub.
