Perth Glory marquee forward Mile Sterjovski believes he has given himself the best chance of making the Socceroos squad by training at Premiership clubs Fulham and Blackburn Rovers.
Perth Glory marquee forward Mile Sterjovski believes he has given himself the best chance of making the Socceroos squad by training at Premiership clubs Fulham and Blackburn Rovers.
As the world-s biggest sporting event draws closer, Sterjovski says his experience at both clubs has breathed new life in his bid to be selected for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
“I think my chances are as good as any player outside the starting 11. Most of the squad is in the same situation I am in at the moment.
“They are training at a high level but not playing regular football so that-s why I say I have a decent chance.
“The only thing I can do is keep working hard and know I have done everything in my power to make the squad. The rest is up to the coach,” Sterjovski said.
With the help of Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and Blackburn duo Vinnie Grella and Brett Emerton, Sterjovski was able to secure his arrangement with the elite sides.
“I was very fortunate to have good friends that could help me out and make it possible for me to train at premiership clubs.
“It has been everything that I needed. The intensity at training has been superb and the focus of the players makes training very enjoyable and beneficial.
“It has definitely given me the best chance to make the squad,” Sterjovski said.
Glory has bolstered their squad yet again this season, signing a number of new recruits including Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler, who will form a lethal partnership with Sterjovski up front.
Last year-s Golden Boot winner says that along with great players, comes great expectations to perform, and believes that will only push the team further to strive for success.
“It-s good to have that kind of pressure and hopefully Robbie and the other new players can settle in quickly so we can start working on our season.
“I-m very happy that he has signed for Perth and I think that he will help us tremendously in our title hunt.
“Robbie is a great player and I-m sure he is going to bring quality to the team and a lot of experience. I-m looking forward to playing with him,” Sterjovski said.
Perth is the first team in the Hyundai A-league to make use of the new rule implemented by the FFA which allows both an Australian marquee (Sterjovski) and foreign marquee (Fowler) in the squad.
Sterjovski says it-s a testament to Perth-s coaching and recruitment staff and the commitment of owner Tony Sage.
“I really admire Tony Sage for his vision in where he wants Perth Glory to go.
“He has said that the Asian Champions League is a goal and the time and money he is investing into the club shows his commitment and determination in succeeding.
“The squad we are building is getting stronger every season and we have Tony to thank for that along with David Mitchell,” Sterjovski said.
