Never thought I will be playing for Wallabies - Leroy Houston

Australia flanker Leroy Houston said his recall into the national team after almost 11 years was unexpected.

The 29-year-old was in the middle of a four-month loan stint with Bath from Queensland Reds during which Australia head coach Michael Cheika named him on the bench for the Rugby Championship game against Argentina at Twickenham.

It was in 2005, Houston was first picked in the Wallabies squad, though he did not play any game during that time for the senior team, he featured for the Australia A team that defeated French Barbarians 42-12.

"Yeah of course. I was just playing rugby - I didn't think I'd ever get back into the Wallabies.

"But the chance has come around and I'm very happy to take it. I can't put it into words, emotions are running high.

"Now the thing is to try to keep calm and just prepare the right mental space to play against the Pumas.

"Knock on wood I'll be able to come off the bench and hopefully get that debut. I didn't think I'd be involved at all this year."

It was former Australian coach Eddie Jones, who picked Houston in an extended Wallabies squad that toured Europe in 2005. However, after failing to appear in a single game, Houston forced his way back into the squad after performances Bordeaux and Bath.

"Back in 2005 I was just star-struck to be honest, looking up to players like Stephen Larkham and George Smith.

"I was really, really shy. I didn't speak too much because I couldn't believe I was with those guys, getting to train and play with them.

"The last time I was at Twickenham with the Wallabies I was a spectator, on that 2005 tour. The English anthem gave me goosebumps.

"I love Bath, the supporters there are great. So it's been emotional; going back there was awesome.

"This time I get to say goodbye,and also look to the future and playing for the Reds. I wanted to give back to the supporters.

"I left on short-notice with them, and they are such a great supporting base that I felt like I left on a bit of a bad note.

"They gave me the opportunity to come back until the end of October and finish up hopefully on a high note."

Meanwhile, Australia captain Stephen Moore was a replacement in Houston's only appearance for green and gold team against the French Barbarians. Moore lauded Houston's comeback and credited his performances in the northern hemisphere for bringing his career with the Wallabies on track.

"I remember Leroy had a really strong game against the French Barbarians, and that was my first Wallabies tour," said Moore.

"It's amazing to see that after all that time he now gets his chance for a possible Wallabies debut.

"He's taken the chance to play club rugby in the northern hemisphere and been able to prove his quality.

"Of course he's coming back to play at the Reds next year but it's a good indication that no matter what you do there can always be an opportunity if you want it."