Wright hails Postecoglou's willingness to give youth a chance

Published on: 22 March 2017

Tehran: Australia defender Bailey Wright has hailed coach Ange Postecoglou’s willingness to give youth players a chance ahead of Thursday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Asian Qualifier clash with Iraq at PAS Stadium, Tehran.

Adelaide United’s teenage midfielder Riley McGree was a surprise call-up into the 23-man squad ahead of the Matchday Six and Matchday Seven ties against Iraq and the United Arab Emirates respectively.

But 24-year-old Wright, who himself was a new face when unexpectedly named in Australia’s 2014 FIFA World Cup squad, believes McGree’s inclusion can only be a positive.

“It’s great for everyone. I think most of us got our chance in a similar fashion,” said the Bristol City centre back.

“I know when I got my first call up it was a bit out of the blue and people weren’t expecting it. But Ange gave me a chance and that’s what he’s willing to do. If you’re working hard and doing well, and he sees something, then he’s not afraid to have a look and help you get your foot in the door.

“So it’s great to see Riley come in. He’s a good young lad and, although we’ve only had the one session so far, it looks like he’s settling in well.

“It’s good for most young players that they can look around and see that if they do well and work hard the opportunity will be there. It won’t go unrecognised and unnoticed. If he [Postecoglou] feels you deserve it, he’ll consider giving you a chance.”

Postecoglou, like Wright, grew up in the suburbs of Melbourne and both will be looking to make their second consecutive FIFA World Cup appearance at Russia next year. While Australia currently lie in third  place in Group B, a point behind leaders Saudi Arabia and second-placed Japan, they remain the only undefeated team in qualifying along with Group A leaders IR Iran.

And despite a tighter than ever qualifying campaign so far, the view back home in Australia is non-negotiable: the Socceroos are expected to qualify. According to Wright, it’s an attitude that is matched within the squad.

“We don’t feel pressured because of that view; we have that expectation ourselves,” he said.

“If you ask any of us, we don’t just want to qualify but we want to do it in style and make sure we’re prepared to do well in the World Cup and cause some upsets.

“The first step is to qualify, but we’re confident we’ll do that. People say the pressure is on and the group is tight, but it’s still in our hands and if we win the games in front of us we know where that will take us.

“We’re looking forward to it. For us it’s about getting better and better and that’s what we’ll continue to do.”

Photos: Lagardère Sports

Source: the-afc.com

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.
Learn more