The Socceroos' path to the World Cup is about to get even tougher with next month's qualifying play-off against Syria likely to be played in the Middle East - not in Malaysia.

War-torn Syria has not played on home soil since 2010 and staged all of their third-round Asian qualifiers in Malaysia, where it was anticipated they would play host to Australia on October 5.

Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou. Credit:AAP

But it's understood there are moves being made by Syria's football association to ensure the clash will be held in either Jordan, Qatar or the United Arab Emirates - instead of on Australia's doorstep in south-east Asia.

Reports from overseas suggest Abu Dhabi is the frontrunner.