Matildas legend Cheryl Salisbury, named Australia's greatest female player. Credit:Jonathan Carroll

All featured at the last two FIFA World Cup finals, while Mark Viduka, who competed at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, was also included.

The late Johnny Warren, striker Ray Baartz, Alan Davidson, Ned Zelic and Joe Marston - the first Australian to compete in an FA Cup final - were also in the team, but there were no members who represented the Socceroos prior to 1947.

Kewell is in Great Britain and was not present to receive the award in front of many current and former greats, but described it as "an incredible honour".

"I'm humbled by the award and very grateful, especially given that the public have had such a say in the final result and the number of great footballers this country has produced over the years," the former Leeds, Liverpool, Galatasaray and Melbourne Victory attacker said.