North Queensland Fury FC’s Shane Stefanutto says his selection in the Qantas Socceroos squad to take on the Korea Republic proves his move to the Hyundai A-League hasn’t hurt his international career.
The 29-year-old joins Gold Coast United captain Jason Culina as the only two Australian-based players named in the 24-man squad.
“It’s a little bit relieving,” Stefanutto admitted.
“I was unsure about what would happen, that was the honest truth, but now I’m really happy.”
“I don’t know if they’ve been following me the last couple of games or whether a chance has come about because someone’s not available in Europe, I’m not sure.”
“I haven’t spoken to the coach yet but I’m just happy to be part of it and really happy for North Queensland as well, that a Socceroo is in the squad.”
Coach Ian Ferguson shared the defender’s delight at the selection and praised Stefanutto’s efforts in the short time he’s been wearing Fury colours.
“It’s fantastic news for him and also for the club,” he said.
“It proves that we’ve tried to get quality players into the club and I think there are only two A-League players that were picked for the squad so we’re really pleased with that.”
“I’m pleased for him as well, because he’s done well since he’s come here.”
The clash with Korea will be played in Seoul on Saturday, September 5.
But it’s first things first for Stefanutto whose focus is firmly set on helping North Queensland achieve its maiden Hyundai A-League victory in Adelaide.
“The sooner it comes the better,” Stefanutto said.
“But the main thing at the moment is not the result, it’s the performance … the result against Melbourne was disappointing but the performance was good … if performances keep being good then results will come, I’m sure of it.”
“I think cohesion’s going to be a lot better, we’ve had a good training week, the boys probably know each other a little bit better now so hopefully it’s only going to get better.”
