Club: Red Star Belgrade
Previous clubs: VfB Stuttgart, 1860 Munich, Yokohama F Marinos
Caltex Socceroos cap number: 585
Debut: 27/05/2016 v England
Degenek was born in Croatia before his family moved to Australia as a child. He began his career with the Australian Institute of Sport followed by a move to Germany to join VfB Stuttgart's as a teenager in 2012. Injures prevented him from making a first-team appearance, but a subsequent switch to 1860 Munich elevated him to the national team reckoning.
Degenek broke into Caltex Socceroos squad after a number of strong showings as a centre-back and defensive midfielder in 2. Bundesliga and made his international debut against England in May 2016, providing the cross that led to Eric Dier's own goal.
He grew into a bigger role throughout the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign and, now playing his club football in Japan, is considered one of Australia's premier defenders.
Best Caltex Socceroos moment:
Degenek was included in Australia's squad for the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup and started against both Germany and Cameroon.
Did you know?
Previously captain of the Under-15 national team, Degenek was part of the Joeys squad that contested the 2011 FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
