Dynamic 18-year-old attacker Kosta Petratos may have only just begun his senior career with Perth Glory in January, but that hasn’t stopped him from hoping to emulate the likes of Ronaldinho and Maradona.
The skilful goal scorer, who has managed an impressive seven goals from only 15 appearances for the Australia U17’s, insists he has high hopes and goals for the NPL season.
“I need to get in as many games as I can,” the youngster said.
“[I need to] get a few goals and gain experience to get some game time in the first grade.”
Petratos made seven appearances off the bench for Perth Glory this season, making his debut against Wellington Phoenix in Round 18, a game Perth Glory went on to win 1-0. Since then, he’s made appearances both home and away, including against his older brother Dimitri’s Brisbane Roar.
The Petratos family has a strong pedigree, with Dimitri having had a breakthrough season this campaign.
“I’ve always looked up to him,” the former Sydney Olympic youth revealed.
“I have since I was really small, he’s always been sort of an idol to me.”
Petratos spent two years honing his skills at the FFA Centre of Excellence under the guidance of Tony Vidmar, but the forward acknowledges there is much still to learn from the likes of Richard Garcia, Chris Harold and the rest of the Perth Glory squad.
“The older ones give you a little advice,” the number 21 revealed. “It’s really helpful.”
Much like his aforementioned heroes, the technically gifted Petratos will be hoping his vast bag of tricks and eye for goal can help his side achieve success, as he looks to break into the starting line-up for the upcoming A-League season.
