Was probably ineligible anyway
He's the only player that we know is eligible!
But yeah never really looked as sure in the AW's as he does in the Nix, but I respect him for wanting to represent NZ. He has more right to the AW jersey than Tommy Smith does.
I think Durante is fantastic
And I disagree with your statement..
1. No one has a right to a jersey
They aren't given out for being nice, or available
They go to the best players, the aim is to field your best team in the games that count, to win.
The friendly against Mynamar doesn't count, as Hudson has admitted by excluding several players, Smith, and Wood/others. (Good compromise I think to ensure they are available when it counts)
2. Smith is a better footballer than Durante. Plays consistently in a higher league and is one of the first names written down when picking the All Whites.
3.Dont forget that Durante was interested in being picked for Australia as a senior / was in a squad / on the bench for a friendly IIRC and then turned to NZ.
Whereas Smith was not involved as a senior, played for England u17, u18 and then for NZ, was available for NZ earlier, still is and has been captain.