Speaking after his star return for Australia on Thursday night in Perth, Socceroo playmaker Tom Rogic said he’s learnt to appreciate football more after his long layoff from injury.
Rogic was a constant threat as Australia smashed Bangladesh 5-0 in their FIFA World Cup Russia 2018™ Qualifier on Thursday night.
The tall midfielder scored twice in the first half – the second a deflected goal – and ran the show in midfield with his ability to change direction and pass incisively.
Five-star Socceroos overwhelm Bangladesh
Speaking after the win, the Celtic star said the joy of playing for club and country was something he appreciated so much more since his almost two years out of the game due to injury.
“It’s a really proud moment and I was just enjoying every minute,” Rogic told Fox Sports after the game.
“It’s tough, people don’t know or realise what you go through,” he said when asked about his layoff.
“I’ve worked extremely hard over the past 12 months to get to this point and I’ve had a positive start but I want to keep going.
“To enjoy playing football again, it’s something that maybe you take for granted before...”
Analysis: Socceroos v Bangladesh
Socceroo coach Ange Postecoglou added the 22-year-old had some nerves before the game.
“And I could tell he was a little bit edgy before the game, but once he started he was great.
“Because the kind of player he is there is always massive expectations around him, but I just wanted him to go out and enjoy himself and get amongst the players,” he told Fox Sports.
“The movements he does and the way he can change directions will give problems to any team.”