Australia international Harry Kewell is prepared to fly home and play for his country for the first time in three years.

The Liverpool midfielder has not played in Australia since the World Cup qualifying playoff against Uruguay on November 20 2001 although his last appearance for the team was a friendly against South Africa in London in March.

Kewell, who had an ankle injury last season, has been criticised by the Australian media for his non-participation in internationals outside of Europe.

"It (criticism) is part and parcel of my life. I have learned to accept it over the last eight years - almost since I started playing," the 25-year-old told reporters.

"But I still like playing for my country and I will always be there for them - wherever it is.

"If it means going back to Australia that's fine, it's my home country...It's a bit of a trek but it has got to be done.

"I have had a rest and treatment on my ankle over the summer and it's all fine now so I can fly again," added Kewell who has 15 caps.

Australia are due to play the Solomon Islands in a two-legged Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Nations Cup final playoff in October.

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