Victory striker Archie Thompson deserves a place in Australia's 23-man squad for next year's World Cup in South Africa, according to his A-League coach Ernie Merrick.

Thompson played a starring role in Melbourne's 2-1 triumph over Perth Glory on Sunday, with his dazzling runs and expert vision helping set up numerous chances, including Carlos Hernandez's 68th-minute match-winner.

National coach Pim Verbeek has used lanky striker Josh Kennedy and Scott McDonald as his preferred partnership up front for Australia, with the likes of Harry Kewell and Tim Cahill also used in forward roles at various times.

But Merrick felt there was room for 31-year-old Thompson, who has netted five goals this season, to be part of the World Cup squad.

"He's played outstanding football and his work rate is phenomenal," Merrick said of Thompson, who has scored 21 goals in 32 appearances in the green and gold.

"I think he's in with a chance of the World Cup the way he's playing, the way he's defending and attacking.

"His all-round game has improved out of sight and he's as fit as he's ever been."

Merrick said the loss of fellow striker Danny Allsopp to Qatari club Al-Rayyan earlier in the season had seen Thompson lift to a new level.

"I think he's definitely taken part of the role that Danny Allsopp used to fulfil," Merrick said.

"He's taken on a lot more responsibility and i think he's maturing really well as a player.

"I think he's just clicked with the players.

"He's working hard, his attitude is fantastic and he's motivated to play well with the Victory.

"I think the extension of his contract was a big plus for him and probably the opportunity to go to the World Cup is another motivation.

"But first and foremost he's playing great for us and it's a pleasure to watch."

Melbourne have notched six wins from their past seven games to remain just one point adrift of ladder leaders Sydney.

And with several key players set to return from injury in the coming weeks, including Nick Ward, Tom Pondeljak, Surat Sukha and Evan Berger, Merrick said a top-two finish was well in the club's sights.

"First of all we want to be in the finals but we'd say like all the teams we want to be in the top two because they are really the only sides that get the double chance," he said.

"We are on track for that but it's about consistency of performance and it would be great to put out the same team.

"Sydney's a good side so it's good we're keeping up with them.

"... But it's one thing getting to the top, it's another thing staying there consistently."