Kruse is yet to play a minute in the Bundesliga this season, which was obvious as he struggled through 90 minutes in Australia's uninspiring 2-2 World Cup qualifying draw with lowly Thailand.

The 28-year-old is contracted until June next year, but conceded he will probably need to look for a move in the January transfer window if he's a chance of playing in the Confederations Cup.

"I know I need to sort my club future out in January because I need to be playing regularly, wherever that may be," Kruse said.

"I can feel in myself just a few per cent not in the rhythm I used to be in when I was playing regularly before my injury.

"Heading into the Confederations Cup, it's vital for me to be playing at my club."

Kruse was not the only starter in Tuesday night's match lacking game time.

Valencia goalkeeper Mat Ryan hasn't played in the La Liga since August while left-back Brad Smith is yet to leave Bournemouth's bench in the English Premier League.

A recent injury to Milos Degenek also saw the defender ruled out for a period for German second-tier outfit 1860 Munich.

Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou admitted the situation was less than ideal.

"It would certainly help more if they were playing regular football," Postecoglou said.

"I can't influence that apart from selection, and at the end of the day the players know the position they're in, and we need our players playing regular football."