Matt McKay will use the disappointment of losing an AFC Asian Cup final as motivation to ensure Brisbane Roar don’t miss out on silverware of their own.
Roar captain McKay touched down in Brisbane early this morning after a month representing his country in Qatar, admitting to a “depressing” feeling amongst the national side after the Socceroos- stellar tournament ended without a trophy.
The 28-year-old was one of the stand-out performers in Holger Osieck-s team throughout the campaign, earning him well-deserved plaudits from teammates, fans and commentators alike with his outstanding form winning him starting berths in Australia-s last four matches and limiting Qantas Socceroos veteran Brett Emerton to appearances off the bench.
With just two Hyundai A-League matches left to play in the regular season and the finals series fast approaching, Roar foundation player McKay said the recent experience of playing high-pressure games was the ideal preparation as Brisbane look to secure the premiership and chase grand final glory.
“We talked very positively after the final, we did very well, we only conceded two goals the whole tournament, topped our group and all that,” he said.
“But there-s a bit of a hollow feeling amongst some of the players that we didn-t win it because we-d done so well and we felt we done so well and we felt we did deserve it in the end.
“It-s only been a month since I left but now I-ve got a lot more experience playing in big games.
“It would mean a great deal, not just for myself but for every single player in the team and the Brisbane public because it-s obviously tough times here.
“We-ve waited six years to get this far and we want to finish off the job.
“We-ll be working extremely hard this next month to make sure we get a home final and win the thing.”
Brisbane Roar coach Ange Postecoglou alluded to the fact he believed his skipper was worthy of a starting eleven spot in the Australian side before he departed for the tournament, but even McKay himself was astounded at the way his form evolved throughout his time in Qatar.
“It was a bit of a blur at first, obviously a very disappointing result but very proud of our efforts,” McKay said.
“It was a bit hard to take because we-d done so well in the group stages and then progressed comfortably through the semi-final and it was just disappointing to lose in that way.”
With speculation surrounding his future after a string of man-of-the-match performances in the green and gold jersey, McKay confirmed he would be sticking around to lead his side, to what he hoped, would be their first ever Hyundai A-League championship.
“I have just signed a new three year deal and it-s a very good deal,” he said.
“The Roar are going places and I want to be a part of that.
“If offers come in, that-s out of my hands and the club will deal with it there and then.
“I-m just really excited about the rest of the season, I want to concentrate on this title and I can promise you I-ll be here for the rest of the season.”
