After missing a large chunk of 2024 through injury, Riley McGree has returned to the Subway Socceroos squad and is “very proud” to be representing Australia in his hometown, Adelaide.
McGree, an Adelaide local, is finding form and fitness just at the right time, ahead of our all-important FIFA World Cup 2026™ Round Three qualifiers against China PR and Japan.
The Adelaide local faced the media earlier today, speaking about returning to Adelaide, how the team can find that creative spark and the depth of South Australia talent in the squad.
Here’s what he had to say.
On returning to Adelaide
It's good to be back in Adelaide. We've got a strong representation from South Australia. So, very proud. I've watched a game or two [of Socceroos in Adelaide], but never played, so this is definitely up there.
On whether the environment will change much with a new coach
I think firstly, as players, the vibe will be pretty similar. We're quite close and a tight knit group. And I think, speaking of vibe, it would always be to come in here and win and get the best results we can as a team. But, yes, having Tony [Popovic] come in now and a new direction going forward, it's a very exciting time for everyone involved. I've only been in here for a day, but so far, we're all still very together and going forward, I like to think that'll remain.
On finding a creative spark against teams that sit back
I think as a team like Australia, we come up against these teams that do sit off. And I think going forward - as in the past - we're going to have to find ways to break these teams down and avoid getting frustrated and find a way to win. You learn from every match. I think win, lose or draw, and especially the games that you lose, you learn the most. So going forward, learning lessons and putting into place new ideas and hopefully getting the results from that.
On whether he can provide that creativity against China PR and Japan
I hope so. We're all attacking players with quality, and we all know and have shown that we can break teams down and score and assist. It's not up to any one individual. I think we're all capable of it, and it's about on the day, making that happen.
On the pressure the Socceroos face ahead of China PR
Pressure is a privilege. Pressure is great and if you can relish the pressure and you can use it to your advantage, then it can only lead to good results. Pressure, for me, on a personal level, is something that happens and there's harder things in life than being a footballer and winning games.
On how he’s feeling after a lengthy injury layoff
I feel good. I've obviously been back for a few games in Clubland. So I'm doing everything I can every day, to be as fit and available and feeling the best I can. I think it’s my third season [at Middlesbrough] now. I’m loving it, I love everything about the club. I love the direction we're pushing in and hopefully there are some positive times ahead.
On Apostolos Stamatelopoulos’ rise
Absolutely, I've always seen that [quality] in him, and I think a lot of people have. And he's gone and done that and showed what he is capable of now. And I think there's still definitely more to come. The mentality he has is great to see and I'm super proud.
On how many family and friends he’ll have at the game in Adelaide
I’m going to have to make a list and ask around for a few tickets, I think! But I'll definitely have a few family and friends, and I'm really proud and looking forward to having them in the crowd and hopefully being able to play in front of them.
The sacrifices that people have made along the way for myself to be here and to get the opportunities that I get, we're all in together, and I can't thank them enough - not only my friends, but the support network I've had - for giving me this opportunity.
On what to expect from a Tony Popovic side
I played against teams that he's managed before. I’ve never played under him myself. But I think it's an exciting brand of football, and one that everyone who I've spoken to has bought into and has loved to play in.
On why we’re seeing so much depth of South Australian talent in the squad
I think South Australia has got a lot of talent, and I think we've shown that over the years, that we can have a good representation from this state and from this city. And I think going forward, that'll still be the case. From what I've seen at Adelaide United and in the A-League previously, and the young players coming through as well, I think there are exciting prospects and exciting times ahead. I think the South Australian players, whether it be at Adelaide United or other A-League clubs, are just taking their opportunities and doing the best they can to put themselves in the spotlight and then giving themselves that chance.
Match Details
Subway Socceroos v China PR
Thursday, 10 October 2024
Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
Kick-off: 7:30 pm ACDT (8:00pm AEDT)
Tickets: Start from $15 Child, $20 Concession, $29 Adult, and $58 Family. Tickets from Ticketek.
Broadcast: 10, 10 Play and Paramount+
Japan v Subway Socceroos
Tuesday 15 October 2024
Saitama Stadium 2002, Tokyo
Kick-off: 7.35pm local (9.35pm AEDT)
Broadcast: Paramount+