The ongoing Socceroos revolution under Ange Postecoglou has elder statesman Tim Cahill feeling the excitement of a rookie again.

Cahill’s passion for international football has been unwavering in 73 appearances for Australia.

But Postecoglou’s push to turn the Socceroos in a polished, attack-minded team has provided a new source of motivation.

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“It’s a great time for us as players because we live and breath it and we can sense we are progressing with every camp,” Cahill told AAP ahead of Friday’s friendly with the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi.

“It’s fantastic, because I’m 34 years old and every time I come into camp I’m excited about how we’re going to play or what we’re going to do or how the people are going to stop us.

“There’s always something new, there’s always something that’s added when the boss speaks to us in a video session and that’s the exciting part.”

A large part of Cahill’s enjoyment comes from his sense of responsibility in helping usher in the next generation of players.

The veteran striker is relishing his role alongside Mile Jedinak and Mark Bresciano in the Australian leadership group and the open, inclusive team environment they’re helping to build.

“I think we’ve got a great balance and it seems to work well,” said Cahill, the oldest player in the Socceroos squad.

“We’ve had three meetings here this week already and me, Bresch and Mile, we sit on separate tables and make sure we’re always being cautious of whether someone’s left out.

“It’s up to us to set that example.”

Cahill wants to leave a lasting legacy on the national team and nothing is driving him on more than the prospect of lifting the Asian Cup on home soil in January.

“It’s a massive medal. There is no bigger drive than to lift a trophy on home soil,” Cahill said.

“I feel for us as a nation, this can give a massive lift to football.

“We’ve got a wonderful things happening in the A-League and internationally but this is actually it.

“It will be a monumental sporting occasion for us as a nation.”