Melbourne Heart FC head coach John van ‘t Schip believes star defender Aziz Behich has the potential to earn selection to the Socceroos following a strong display against Brisbane Roar over the weekend.
Melbourne Heart FC head coach John van ‘t Schip believes star defender Aziz Behich has the potential to earn selection to the Socceroos following a strong display against Brisbane Roar over the weekend.
Behich-s performance, which earned widespread platitudes from pundits across the nation, sparked speculation the 21-year-old is destined for senior international call-up sooner rather than later.
“If you want to get there to the Socceroos, he is on a good way to get there, but it’s up to him and of course, the coach to select him if he sees there is future for him, but I feel he can make that step,” he said.
“I’m happy with how Aziz is progressing, but he knows there are areas he needs to keep on working on. His positioning, in one-on-one, he is ok, but in positioning. He is still having some problems there.
“He has to remain focused and you can’t get ahead of yourself. Especially when you are only 21. There are a lot of things you have to improve and stability is one of them and living your profession.”
After impressing sufficiently during his first season in Red and White to earn the Supporters- Player of the Year award, the Victorian-born left back has taken his game to another level this time around, demonstrated clear improvement in his crossing and defensive abilities.
“Aziz is progressing and developing and every time making steps,” van ‘t Schip said.
“The effort that we get for him is great, we ask for him to make those (attacking) runs and we give him all the freedom he needs. He’s making big steps.”
“I think the things he is working on now is his scoring and assists and I think that’s something he can improve on to make some really good steps towards higher.”
