The Caltex Socceroos will play two crucial pre-2018 FIFA World Cup friendlies in March with games against Norway and Colombia.

The back-to-back fixtures will be vital preparation ahead of the World Cup and could be the last chance for a host of players to push their claims for a spot on the plane to Russia.

We’ve picked out five bolters who might get the nod.

CALLUM ELDER

An Australian youth international, Elder is enjoying a consistent run with League One leaders Wigan Athletic, where he is on-loan from EPL side Leicester City.

The 22-year-old has matured as a defender in recent seasons and his versatility means he can play either as a left-back or in the heart of defence.

Elder is in a confident mood as well having got his name on the scoresheet earlier this month as Wigan dumped EPL club Bournemouth out of the FA Cup with a 3-0 win.

Callum Elder

GOLGOL MEBRAHTU

After an injury-plagued few seasons, we're finally starting to see the best of the former Gold Coast United, Melbourne Heart and Western Sydney Wanderers flyer.

Mebrahtu is currently playing in the Czech Republic with Mlada Boleslav and the move has been a perfect one for his career.

The 27-year-old has been in excellent goal-scoring form, finding the net six times from just 11 appearances this season.

GolGol Mebrahtu

DANIEL ARZANI

The talented teenager has exploded to prominence in the Hyundai A-League this season with a string of fine displays with Melbourne City.

Despite having just a dozen Hyundai A-League appearances to his name, Arzani’s ability can’t be questioned and he oozes the class, confidence and dribbling ability that can provide an x-factor.

He’s been one of City’s best in recent weeks, providing two assists as well as being involved in a number of goals for Warren Joyce’s side.

Daniel Arzani

DIMITRI PETRATOS

The 25-year-old has always had plenty of potential but seems to be realising it this season under Ernie Merrick at the Newcastle Jets.

Petratos has started all 17 games for the Jets this season, producing an impressive seven goals and five assists.

Blessed with searing pace, an ability to play in tight spaces and possessing a fearsome shot, Petratos has an excellent arsenal and can play anywhere across the frontline.

Dimitri Petratos

DANIEL DE SILVA

De Silva has been earmarked as a future Caltex Socceroo ever since bursting onto the Hyundai A-League scene as a 16-year-old at Perth Glory.

Now 20 and doing excellent things with the Mariners, the classy playmaker could be about to make the jump to the senior national set-up after playing for Australia at all junior levels.

De Silva is a pure no.10 and was one of Australia’s best at the recent AFC U23 Championships in China.