Don't expect Winston Reid back in an All Whites jersey any time soon, as he continues to recover from a knee injury.
That's the message from New Zealand coach Fritz Schmid, who says he won't be rushing Reid back into the national team.
Reid has been side-lined for 11 months, after suffering a freak injury during West Ham's Premier League clash with Swansea City.
The 30-year-old twisted his knee, when he was knocked over and tumbled to the turf.
He had surgery on the knee, but had a setback during pre-season, which prolonged his time in the injury ward.
Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini has ruled Reid out for the Premier League season, which would likely keep him out of club football until the 2019/20 season, so July at the earliest.
Right now, the All Whites won't play until November, when they face Ireland in Dublin, and Schmidt told Reid he could take his time returning to play for New Zealand again.
"He has to be patient," said Schmid. "I wish him all the best to get back to get to where he was, and make sure he's back on the pitch to play his game and respect his contract with his club.
"If he's ready for international activities, he'll let me know when he wants to be a part for the All Whites. He's making progress, but he still might be still some way to go."
Schmid visited Reid in his London home.
"He gave me a clear report on his situation and the whole history of his injury, and also the setback he suffered after he returned to training.
"Winston is an experienced player who knows how to behave and how to look after his body.
"He also knows he needs his physical capacities to be on top to play his game and it's only fair to allow him the time he needs [to get fit]."
Reid still has four-and-a-half years remaining on his contract, which expires in 2023.
Schmid has also monitored the progress of midfielder Ryan Thomas, who tore knee ligaments, a week after signing with Dutch giants PSV.
"He has got rid of his crutches, and he's back to activities on the pitch and touching the ball.
"He has my support to take as much time as he needs to get back in his team.
"Once he's been back where he was before, then it's time to talk international football again."
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