Eugene Galekovic’s stellar form between the posts has been rewarded with selection in the Qantas Socceroos squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Oman.
Adelaide United FC captain Eugene Galekovic-s stellar form between the posts has been rewarded with selection in the Qantas Socceroos squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Oman in Sydney on March 26.
The Reds- inspirational shot stopper was one of three goalkeepers named in Qantas Socceroos Coach Holger Osieck-s 23-player squad for the match, Galekovic joined by veteran Mark Schwarzer and Central Coast Mariners custodian Mathew Ryan.
Despite not being a stranger to national team selection, which included being part of Australia-s 2010 World Cup squad in South Africa, Galekovic admits he was somewhat surprised to be given the call up to the squad for such a big game.
“I was a little bit (surprised) considering all of the players from Europe and the Middle East were coming back, so it-s a surprise but I-m happy to go to Sydney and meet up with the boys,” Galekovic said after the announcement this morning.
To date, Galekovic has made four appearances and recorded two clean sheets for the Qantas Socceroos, and while he knows Schwarzer is likely to be given the nod against Oman, he is relishing the opportunity to go into camp and put his best foot forward.
The prospect of possibly going to another World Cup is also an incentive for the 31 year old, who knows if he continues to focus on doing well between the posts for Adelaide United, he will be in the mix.
“It-s always good to go there and try to prove yourself, and if something does pop up in the near future then you have something in Holger-s mind that you have a chance,” Galekovic said.
“Getting a sniff now it gives you that feeling that you-re in with a chance again, but it-s about performing every week for your club and if you do that, hopefully the coach picks the players that deserved to be picked.”
On his selection, the dual Hyundai A-League Goalkeeper of the Year also paid credit to Reds Goalkeeper Coach Peter Blazincic, who has worked with Galekovic since he arrived in Adelaide in 2007.
“Since I-ve been here Peter Blazincic has helped me a lot, he-s one of the top goalkeeping coaches in the country and credit goes to him as well,” Galekovic said.
Galekovic-s call up means he will miss the Reds- match against the Central Coast Mariners on Sunday 24 March, although the Mariners will also be without their number one keeper Ryan.
Galekovic will fly out to Sydney to join the Qantas Socceroos squad on Monday.
