‘It’s been a long time coming’: Maclaren looking forward to new A-League season
Socceroos striker Jamie Maclaren is looking forward to starring upfront for Melbourne City as they prepare to play in front of their home fans for the first time since the COVID-19 lockdown.
Maclaren and his Melbourne City will need to be fit and raring to go as they prepare for a Grand Final rematch against Sydney FC on December 30.
As last season’s golden boot winner it is no surprise to hear that Maclaren is excited for the impending start of the new season.
“You can’t beat competitive football and to know it’s around the corner is exciting,” he said.
“We’re in a good place.”
“We’ve got some hurt from last season but that will carry us for this season and what better way to start against Sydney FC.”
It will be a welcome return to normality for Maclaren and his side as they prepare to play in front of fans for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic hit Australia.
“You can’t beat playing in front of your own. The boys and myself can’t wait to play in front of our fans at AAMI Park and really show them what they’ve been missing.”
The Melbourne born striker gave City supporters an indication of what they can expect to see from their side this season with new coach Patrick Kisnorbo at the helm.
“PK [Patrick Kisnorbo] was a big figure last year under Erick [Mombaerts] and he’s stepped up into that role,” he said.
“We’ll be an aggressive team this year, we’ll still play similar attractive, attacking football but with an element of PK behind it.”
“It’s a fantastic pre-season so far and we just can’t wait to get started in the season.”
He is looking ahead to another solid season in front of goal as he looks to become a Socceroos mainstay ahead of a busy 2021.
“It’s a huge year, for me it’s all about keeping your club form good and the Socceroos will take care of itself,” he said.
“I just can’t wait to start scoring competitively for this club and the boys are behind me. I’ve got [Andrew] Nabbout now out on the right who will produce some assists.
“I can’t wait to be in behind the defences and start scoring goals again.”
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