Socceroo defender Ryan McGowan is relishing the opportunity to take field in tonight’s crucial World Cup Qualifier against Tajikistan.
Adelaide-born McGowan felt at home being back where he started, the 26-year-old came from grassroots level in South Australia, and was reported to be told he wasn’t good enough by local club Para Hills Knights.
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Since then he has played regularly for clubs in Scotland and China and has assisted Tim Cahill’s wonder strike at the 2014 World Cup, McGowan is now looking to play in front of his family and friends.
“It would be a huge moment for myself and my family, I left Adelaide 10 years ago with a dream to be a professional footballer and to represent Australia,” McGowan said.
“I’ve been lucky enough I’ve represented the Socceroos and feel privileged coming back to Adelaide as part of the Socceroos and it would be a dream come true to play in front of the home crowd.
“The people of Adelaide have been exceptional, they’ve given us everything we’ve needed, there was a good turnout for the fan day and now its match day, we’re hoping for a big crowd and a good performance.”
With many backing the Roos to dispose of the underdog, McGowan said they shouldn’t be underestimated.
“Every game we play we’re more focused on ourselves, more worried about how we play and the style of football we play,” he said.
“They’re a well organised unit, they have players we definitely need to keep an eye on who can catch us on the counter attack, so we’ll give them the respect they’re due.”
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