SUNDERLAND'S Bailey Wright is one of the select few Black Cats players that are away with their nations on international duty which is a source of pride for the 29-year-old.

The centre-half has made 24 caps for his country and scored one goal but has never represented them at a World Cup.

The Socceroos are in qualifying action against Japan next Tuesday having already beaten Oman 3-1 on Wednesday where Wright was an unused substitute. 

While there is a lot to compete with given how far Wright has to travel in between domestic games and internationals, but he says it's something he's been used to over the years. 

Wright says: "It’s not really a challenge. It’s more of an honor when you get called up for your country.

"Sometimes people speak about the journeys and travelling you do but I don’t know any different.

"For me I love any opportunity I get to to go and represent my country. It’s one of those pinch yourself moments because as a kid you always dreamt of that.

"It’s always a target to try and get in that squad and obviously try and get on the pitch, be part of things and be part of the qualifying campaign for a World Cup in Qatar."

Australia are currently top of their qualifying group with three wins out of three and Wright will be hopeful of featuring on Tuesday evening where they host Japan. 

The central defender will also be looking t force his way into the Sunderland starting eleven having just started three games in League One this season.