Adelaide United goalkeeper, Joe Gauci, says he feels “honoured” to have received a call to be part of the Socceroos’ upcoming friendlies against Ecuador.
Gauci received the call from Socceroos Head Coach, Graham Arnold, on Monday while enjoying a deserved day off following Adelaide United’s 4-2 away win over Newcastle Jets on Saturday evening.
Whilst the 22-year-old has tasted the senior National Team set-up once before – brought in as a train-on player around 12 months ago – this is the young ‘keeper’s first official inclusion.
Speaking to media at Coopers Stadium alongside his Club Captain and now international teammate, Craig Goodwin, Gauci explained the magnitude of the call-up.
Getting the call:
“Yesterday was a day off and I was just sitting at home with the family and got a call from a number I didn’t have.
“It was Graham Arnold on the other end and it was a real surreal moment for me.
“I was left speechless and still now, I’ll be struggling to find the words to express the feeling that I have to be called up into the National Team.
“It’s always an honour and a really, really proud moment for myself and for my family.”
National options:
“I very much consider myself Australian.
“I have half my family in New Zealand and spent time there growing up, but was born in Australia.
“Australia’s where my football became serious for me and where I’ve had the fantastic opportunity to start my career.
“So I’ve always considered myself Australian and it’s such an honour to be part of (the Socceroos camp).”
Expectations?:
“I have no expectation to go in and play.
“I’m going in to learn and if I get that the opportunity to make an appearance then I’ll take it with both hands.
“For me, it’s probably just going in and showing what I can do and (gain) some development as well.
“But, of course, I have my eye on the future and hopefully being part of this setup for years to come.”
Childhood Cancer Association presenting Friday’s game:
“It’s a really important game for a really important organisation that are doing wonderful things and playing a really big role here in South Australia.
“The support that (Childhood Cancer Association) give, not only to the kids that are going through a really tough time, but their family members is invaluable.
“They’re an organisation that has no government funding (and) everything is based off donations.
“So for the fans to come out and not only support us, but also support them on Friday night is extremely important.”
Childhood Cancer Association are this week’s Presenting Partner for Adelaide United’s games against Newcastle Jets and Wellington Phoenix in the Liberty A-League and Isuzu UTE A-League respectfully. Click here to donate to their important cause.
