Goalkeeper Max Crocombe says he hopes his current good form with English League Two side Grimsby Town will help him earn a recall to the All Whites for whom he last played in 2018.
The Auckland-born Crocombe (29) won two caps for New Zealand but has fallen down the pecking order behind Oli Sail (Wellington Phoenix), Michael Woud (Kyoto Sanga, Japan), Alex Paulsen (Wellington Phoenix), Matt Gould (Altrincham, UK) and Jamie Searle (Barnsley, UK).
Crocombe has cemented his spot as Grimsby Town’s number one, earning plaudits from media and the club for his performances this season.
In his latest appearance, he saved a penalty against Barrow.
Watch Crocombe’s penalty save
Crocombe hopes his form and a new All Whites head coach might re-open the door for re-selection to the national team.
“I’ve always wanted to be involved (with New Zealand),” Crocombe told BBC Radio Humberside.
”But, it has been difficult with the lack of international windows. In the past, when I’ve gone away, I’ve lost my place in the team and missed league games which was frustrating.
“It’s been a difficult situation at times, as much of a privilege as it is, of course, I want to be involved, and I’m disappointed when I’m not. Recently, with the vaccination restrictions, amongst other things, I don’t think I’ve been allowed to be selected.
“The manager, Danny Hay, has recently announced that he is leaving, so when that happens, you don’t know what might happen in the new cycle.
“I’m in contact with them a lot, but with the restrictions, it is difficult, and it is also a case of wanting to focus on Grimsby as well.
“If I give my all to the club and make sure I stay in good form with them, then the rest sort of takes cares of itself.
Crocombe said the arrival at Grimsby of goalkeeper coach Steve Croudson had helped his game improve to another level.
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