Goal-scorer Irvine welcomes new Caltex Socceroos role

Jackson Irvine is confident of becoming a regular goal threat at international level after scoring his second Caltex Socceroos goal in the loss to Norway in Oslo.

The Hull City star's thumping 19th-minute header - his second in national colours - was one of few positives for Australia as the home side eventually stormed to a 4-1 victory.

Irvine started as an attacking midfielder behind Andrew Nabbout in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a role where he believes he's capable of having an influence.

"I'm still learning about playing in there but the coach has been excellent with me during the week and had the faith to play me in there," Irvine said.

"It's nice to get a goal and I'm trying to learn all the time.

"It's something I've always had throughout my career, a threat from set plays. I had half a chance after that as well.

READ: Irvine's star continues to rise after another headed goal for his nation

REPORT: Caltex Socceroos undone by Norway in van Marwijk's maiden match

"That's the kind of thing you need to contribute when you play in the more forward positions. You're judged on numbers - goals and assists.

"To start off the striker tonight and come away with the goal is probably one of the only positives of my performance tonight but I'm always my own harshest critic.

Socceroos
Irvine's header beats Norway goalkeeper Rune Jarstein.

"Obviously there's a lot to learn tonight so I'll look back over my own performance and see where I can improve."

Australia's next assignment is a friendly against Colombia in London, where Bert Van Marwijk is expected to make wholesale changes to his starting XI.

READ: Van Marwijk adopts patient approach with Caltex Socceroos

READ: Caltex Socceroos skipper  vows improvement after shock loss

Irvine revealed the Dutchman had a simple message for the players following their disappointing Norway defeat.

"Don't let it affect you. There are always going to be speed bumps when you go through these kinds of periods," he said.

"We've got a long way to go and we've got another game this week and another month to work together going into the tournament.

"There's plenty of time to get the things right we need to get right."

Leckie
Mathew Leckie fights for the ball against Norway.