Qantas Socceroo midfielder and former Brisbane Roar captain Matt McKay has paid tribute to his coaches after capping a stellar year by being named Footballer of the Year.
It was a breakthrough year for McKay at both international and club level with the 28-year-old now a regular in the Qantas Socceroos squad after a stunning performance at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar last January.
National team selection came on the back of consistent performances for Brisbane Roar, culminating in McKay leading his team to their inaugural Hyundai A-League title in front of his hometown crowd at Suncorp Stadium.
McKay’s performances over the past year led to a recent move to Scottish giants Glasgow Rangers, home of numerous former Socceroos including former Roar team-mate Craig Moore.
McKay, now a veteran of 19 appearances for Australia, paid tribute to Brisbane Roar coach Ange Postecoglou and Socceroo boss Holger Osieck.
“Ange (Postecoglou) and Holger (Osieck) have given me opportunities, and I guess it shows what a bit of confidence can do for a player,” said McKay.
“It’s been a stellar year, I have really been enjoying my football, my time with the Socceroos and now I’m hoping to continue to improve my game further.
“It’s huge (to win). I have enjoyed the whole year thoroughly and now I’m looking forward to getting the season going again after a long break.
“It was only this time last year that I was called up to a full strength Socceroos for the first time, which was a huge honour for me.”
Six months after lifting the Hyundai A-League trophy, McKay says the local competition is in robust health, with the arrival of Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton to provide added impetus.
“It’s really great they are here and I’m really jealous that they are,” said McKay with a smile.
“It will be huge for the game. Having said the game is strong here (already) but this is an extra level and two guys like Harry and Brett can add a lot.”
