Aziz Behich insists the lure of his second World Cup with Australia is driving him to hit top gear with Dundee United.
Behich, 31, was part of the Socceroos squad at Russia 2018, playing in all three group stage games against France, Peru and Denmark.
Looking to add to his 52 caps, he is currently on international duty for the upcoming friendly double-header against New Zealand.
The call-up was a reward for a notable upturn in form at Tannadice.
After forgettable outings against AZ Alkmaar, Hearts and St Mirren, this displays have immeasurably improved since United reverted to a 3-5-2.
Visibly more comfortable as a left wing-back, Behich was a contender for the Tangerines’ man of the match at Ibrox as the visitors ran Rangers close in a 2-1 defeat last weekend.
“I have already had a taste of the last World Cup and that has been driving me to keep performing at a high level,” said Behich.
“I’m looking forward to Qatar 2022 but I know I have to keep performing for Dundee United to make sure I am in the final squad.
“But it’s an exciting prospect. After qualifying for Qatar, the hope is to go there are surprise a few people.
“We have more and more players coming to Europe now so the competition for places in the international squads is hotting up.”
SPFL contingent
With Nathanial Atkinson, Ryan Strain, Aaron Mooy, Keanu Baccus, Cammy Devlin, Martin Boyle all part of the current squad, national boss Graham Arnold would be increasingly well served by sending a special charter to Scotland to collect all the SPFL stars.
That’s not to mention former Dundee striker Jason Cummings, set to make his Aussie debut in the upcoming games.
“There are loads of Aussies in Scotland at the moment,” smiled Behich. “It has been a real influx over the last few years.
“There are more players leaving Australia and more coming to the UK and Scotland. There’s a strong connection drawing us all here.
“All the Aussies keep in touch, everyone thinks the league here is great and we’re all loving it.”
‘A winner’
The number of Aussie eyes on the Scottish game is only increased due to the exploits of Ange Postecoglou at Celtic, with the experienced coach winning the title in his first campaign on these shores.
Behich was part of the Australian squad that lifted the Asian Cup under Postecoglou in 2015 and was an unused substitute as the Hoops ripped United apart 9-0 earlier this season.
“What Ange is done at Celtic is remarkable and there’s no hiding from that fact,” continued Behich. “It’s not a surprise because I’ve worked with him before and know what he’s like as a manager.
“He’s proved himself everywhere — because he’s a winner.
“As a nation, it makes people proud to see him do well and others will be hoping he can open doors for them.”
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