All Whites coach Danny Hay has named a 21-strong squad for next month's friendlies against Bahrain and Curacao, made up of entirely Europe and US-based players.
But one player not selected is midfielder Gianni Stensness, who has switched his allegiance from New Zealand to Australia, after representing the OlyWhites at this year's Tokyo Olympics.
"I'm not going to say it isn't disappointing to see Gianni make that choice," says Hay.
"He was part of the Olympic team that showed how exciting the future of New Zealand football is looking and I believe his time in our national set-up has played a major role in his development.
"Ultimately, it is his decision and we will respect it."
With COVID-19 travel restrictions hampering those returning to New Zealand, no A-League-affiliated players have been selected, unable to secure spaces in managed isolation.
Instead, coach Hay's squad includes five players handed their first All Whites call-ups. Ten players featured in New Zealand's historic Olympic playoff run.
Currently on trial in Europe, Eastern Suburbs defender Kelvin Kalua is among potential debutants. Matthew Garbett, Dalton Wilkins, Marko Stamenic and Niko Kirwan - son of All Blacks legend Sir John Kirwan - are the other uncapped players.
Senior players Winston Reid and Ryan Thomas are unavailable for selection, as they return from injury, although Reid will join the squad in a mentoring role.
By the time the All Whites take the field against Curacao at Manama, Bahrain, on October 10, 691 days will have passed since their last fixture - a 1-0 loss to Lithuania in November 2019.
All Whites: Stefan Marinovic, Nik Tzanev, Michael Woud, Michael Boxall, Nikko Boxall, Liberato Cacace, Kelvin Kalua, Niko Kirwan, Nando Pijnaker, Tommy Smith, Bill Tuiloma, Dalton Wilkins, Joe Bell, Joe Champness, Matthew Garbett, Sarpreet Singh, Marko Stamenic, Andre de Jong, Elijah Just, Callum McCowatt, Chris Wood.
Join us on October 10 for live updates of the All Whites v Curacao clash in Bahrain
