Central Coast Mariners attacking midfielder Tom Rogic insists he is in no hurry to move abroad and wants to prove himself again in the Hyundai A-League this season.
Central Coast Mariners attacking midfielder Tomas Rogic insists he is in no hurry to move abroad and wants to prove himself again in the Hyundai A-League this season.
The talented 19-year-old starred after signing for the Mariners in January, helping his side clinch the Premiers’ Plate.
Rogic rejected the advances of other A-League clubs at the end of the season, opting to remain with the Mariners.
While all the offers came from within Australia, Rogic said he would have stayed even if he had the option to go overseas.
“I’ve got a lot of work to do this year before I’m ready to consider possibly going overseas,” Rogic said.
“I’m not in a hurry to go anywhere.
“I think when the time is right I’ll know and had that been last year – it could’ve been a little bit rushed if there was an opportunity.
“I’m happy with where I’m at and I’m looking forward to the year.”
Rogic, who was at the Nike Academy last year before being denied a move to English Premier League side Reading because of work permit issues, said his strong relationship with coach Graham Arnold was one of several reasons he stayed.
He said the positive environment at the Mariners also played a part.
“It’s just the club itself and the playing group that we have was also another factor,” Rogic said.
“It is a great bunch of guys and I slotted in quite well in the team and into the club environment. There were a few different factors.”
Despite the hype that surrounded the stunning start to his A-League career, Rogic said there were still areas he needed to improve on.
“I want to be a regular 90-minute player week in, week out. That’s the first goal,” he said.
“Obviously being in the position I am, scoring goals and getting assists is pretty crucial.
“I want to contribute to the team in those areas and hopefully come away with some good stats at the end of the year personally.
“By doing that hopefully I’ll be able to help the team to success because I’d love to have another great year with the Mariners and hopefully be up towards the top of the table.”
Central Coast’s A-League opener against the Western Sydney Wanderers on October 6 shapes as being Rogic’s first chance to begin proving himself again.
He said what he achieved last season meant nothing heading into 2012/13.
“There was a lot of talk after my first few games. I was quite happy. It’s a pretty good start,” Rogic said.
“In saying that, I definitely wasn’t content with what I had done or what I had achieved. It doesn’t count for much now.
“I have to go out and prove it again this year. Hopefully build on that. Like I said, I’ve still got a lot of work to do and a lot of areas of my game which need improving to become a better player.
“I’m looking forward to the challenges this year.”
