Emerging star Jordan Bos is undoubtedly the Socceroos’ first-choice left wing-back, but the evergreen Aziz Behich is hoping for a chance in the same position in his hometown of Melbourne on Tuesday night against Curacao.
Melbourne City skipper Behich was an unused substitute in the Socceroos’ 1-0 win over Cameroon on Friday night in Sydney, where 23-year-old Bos was again a standout with a performance that included a goal.
As happy as Behich is for Bos, the 35-year-old veteran is determined to go to another FIFA World Cup this year, and having not played in the Socceroos’ past seven games, he’s eager for an opportunity at AAMI Park.
“The boss (Socceroos coach Tony Popovic) makes it clear that you’ll get opportunities and you’ve just got to take it,” said Behich, who was part of Australia’s squads for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
“This camp’s no different to the ones before. Everyone works hard. We have a great bunch of boys in this camp as well.
“I’d love to (play at another World Cup), I went through the whole qualification phase. Representing your country is always special but doing it on the world stage is a bit better.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to do it two times, and I’ll do everything I can in my power to put my best foot forward and hopefully impress the boss.”
Bos, a former Melbourne City player, would also like the chance to play in front of his loved ones on Tuesday night before returning to the Netherlands for his club duties with Feyenoord.
“Got to get the tickets ready (for family and friends), but it’s really cool, especially (playing) at AAMI Park, my old home ground from Melbourne City, so I’m looking forward to it,” he said.
Bos said he elevated his game since leaving City three years ago for the start of his European club journey.
He spent two seasons with Belgian club Westerlo before joining Feyenoord in July last year.
“Europe is a big step and I’m playing day in, day out with top players, and top coaches, so you can only really get better from there,” he said.
“It’s pretty full on. Feyenoord’s a big club in Holland, so the whole city is all about it. They’ll let you know if they’re not happy as well.
“It’s pretty nice to be surrounded by a culture that is so influenced by football. They really give their all to the club.”
While he is contracted to Feyenoord for another three seasons, he hopes to eventually step up another level.
“That’s everyone’s dream to play in a top-three league in the world, so we’ll see where it goes from here,” he said.
“I’m happy at Feyenoord at the moment, but if something comes along, I’m sure they’ll look at it.”
