Melbourne Victory defender Jason Geria will fulfill a lifelong ambition if selected to represent Australia in this week’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Geria is in camp with the Caltex Socceroos ahead of matches against Tajikistan in Adelaide on Thursday and Jordan in Sydney on March 29.
The 22-year-old was selected in the national squad for the first time after impressing at right-back for Victory and for the Olyroos in January’s Olympic qualifiers.
“It’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was very young. It would mean the world,” Geria said of representing Australia.
“It’s what every footballer strives to do, play for their country. It’s such a big achievement and I’ll be over the moon if I’m able to pull on the green and gold.”
Geria has been reunited with national coach Ange Postecoglou, who he played under at Victory and previously with Brisbane Roar.
“I don’t think it makes it any easier,” Geria said.
“He’s a very good coach. His record proves that. I’ve been fortunate to play with him in Brisbane and in Melbourne, and now here.
“I’m excited to learn from him again and make a claim for a spot in his team.
“He has shown that he’s willing to give opportunities to players that are performing at their clubs.
“I’m fortunate to get mine this camp and I’m really going to do all I can to get some game time and hopefully nail that spot down.”
Geria said the experience of playing for the Olyroos earlier this year has improved him as a footballer.
“I gained a lot playing against different teams that play different styles of football and having to adapt to that,” he said.
“It was disappointing we didn’t go to Rio, but I think the boys took a lot away from it. As you can see some have really gone on to excel since that tournament.
“It’s a stepping stone, and I think you have to go through some downs to be able to excel further in your career.
“It’s something I took on board and have tried to improve on since then.”
