Newly capped Caltex Socceroo Milos Degenek has spoken of his pride at pulling on the Green and Gold following his debut against England.
The 1860 Munich defender replaced Josh Risdon in the second-half at the Stadium Light and certainly didn't look out of place on the international stage.
That performance has seen the 22-year-old added to the squad that will play Greece in the Dodoni Series in Sydney (June 4) and Melbourne (June 7) next week, in place of the injured Matthew Spiranovic.
Degenek added to Socceroos squad for Greece matches
“To be honest it was unbelievable to represent my country, to represent Australia against England,” Degenek said post-match.
“Not so happy about the result but I'm quite happy and I think the boss is also happy with how we played and implemented the things we try to do in training.
“To make my debut and play the 15-20 minutes that I got really is something I'll never forget and it's something that I've dreamed about and worked hard for for a very long time."
Degenek was lively in his contribution, despite being deployed in the unfamiliar right fullback position, with his crosses being a particular threat.
It was one of his zipping balls into the box that led to the Socceroos goal, when Eric Dier headed into his own net.
“I did my best. Whether I play one minute or ninety minutes it doesn't matter for me, I leave my heart out on the pitch.
“I made an impact. It was a cross and he [Dier] scored an own-goal.
“I was hoping it would lift us a bit and it did and I was hoping we could get a second but didn't.
“It was quite fortunate with the cross that he headed it into his own goal but I think if he wasn't there Tomi [Juric] would've scored.”
Having declared his allegiance to Australia the former Olyroo is now determined to become a regular in Ange Postecoglou's squad and keen to show his abilities on home soil.
“I think the two games will be good for the team and it's a big experience as well,” said Degenek.
“I haven't been in Australia for a while. To play in Australia for Australia is a big, big thing.
“I'm hoping that I'll get a run there as well and show the people that I'm someone that could always be called up and relied on.”
