On world football's biggest stage, Socceroo Brett Holman has not only silenced his legion of hecklers, he's perhaps turned them into fans.

Holman, the most maligned of Socceroos entering the World Cup, leaves as Australia's leading scorer and best player in South Africa, and with a strike against Serbia that is one of the goals of the tournament.

The 26-year-old used to be a subject of derision among Australian supporters unsure of what Pim Verbeek saw in him.

Now it's clear.

Two goals in three World Cup matches - three in his past six appearances, and an uplift of energy every time he sets foot on the park.

That Australia managed to stay alive as long as they did in South Africa was in huge part down to Holman.

The Socceroos coaching staff love him - and not just because he is a veteran of the Dutch system - latterly with AZ Alkmaar.

His unbridled energy, the fact he trains as flat out as he plays, the fact he is first on to the training pitch and usually the last to leave, have long been held in high regard.

But his lack of goals and wastefulness in the heat of battle had brought criticism - and even a Facebook page called Brett Holman Is A Joke.

Holman has always been honest about his role as fan whipping boy.

An interesting and thoughtful interview subject, he never ducks the question, never bags the critics.

His take? Football is a game of opinions, people are entitled to them, and maybe one day he would be able to change minds.

"I'd like to think if I get a chance I can fill in a role, show something the Australian fans haven't seen," Holman said before the tournament.

Does he think he's done that now?

"I hope so. You can only do that with goals and good performances," said Holman after the 2-1 win over Serbia.

"Maybe I haven't done that (score goals) in the past, though I've always given my best for the Aussies.

"But I'm happy with what I've shown.

"You are always going to get criticism now and then. You've got to deal with it and prove them wrong."

Verbeek leaves no doubt what he thinks of Holman and his importance to the Socceroos structure, especially as a generation of senior players prepare to exit.

"I have always been a fan of Brett Holman. I always thought he was very important to the team," Verbeek said.

"The only thing he didn't do was score goals. He always has impact, not always starting, but he's always positive. He's done a great job.

"It's about his confidence, the way he works so hard to be part of this selection. He can be very proud of himself."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP