Australia News
Aussie Spira's Drop Antidote
MATTHEW Spiranovic has nailed his colours firmly to the Australian mast as he looks to gain strength from adversity.
To see the Roos in action today...
The Nurnberg defender took part in today's Socceroo training session at Parramatta Stadium with the pain of relegation still very fresh.
Amid the gloom of dropping out of the Bundesliga though, the youngster hopes the second tier of German football will provide more opportunities for first team football.
But for the moment it is international matters that occupy his thoughts and winning a senior cap.
His selection in Pim Verbeek's latest squad looks to have finally put paid to Croatia's hopes of landing him.
The defender told au.fourfourtwo.com: "For me it was always pretty simple and wasn't really a huge issue. It did drag on longer than I really wanted to put I think it's pretty clear now what my intentions are.
"The next month is massive with the Socceroos and Olympics. I'm looking forward to it. Striving for the Olympic sqaud is pretty special. If I could be a part of it, it will be a huge privilege.
"It's come at the end of a pretty disappointing season for my club. I'm happy to be home.
"It was difficult. The first season I had there was unbelievable. The club and myself had big expectations (this season) but all in all it was pretty disappointing. It was just a case of being too inconsistent.
"I played seven games and was then out with a knee injury which took longer than expected. I had a few other little niggles with my ankle and when I got back we were fighting a relegation battle and the coach might have opted for the more experienced players.
"The pressure and responsibility was placed on their shoulders."
The silver lining to relegation though could be more first team chances at the lower level.
Spiranovic said: "For me personally I'm looking at staying at the club.
"Hopefully next season I can cement a spot and play regularly. For me, that's the most important thing."
To see the Roos in action today...
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