Left-back Alex Gersbach is enjoying a phenomenal year which has seen him make his Caltex Socceroos debut and win the championship in his first season at Norwegian club Rosenborg.
Speaking to FFA TV ahead of Friday morning’s (AEDT) FIFA World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia, Gersbach admitted he’s been surprised at just how quick success has come since his move abroad.
Preview: Saudi Arabia v Caltex Socceroos
Rosenborg wrapped up the league a couple of weeks ago and are a staggering 20 points clear of their nearest rivals with four games still to play this season.
“It’s been a really good year for me. Moving over [to Norway] in February, I would have never thought we were would have won the league by this much.
“I had high hopes and thought we were a chance to win the league but to win it with five games to go is a really good feeling.
“Every day in training playing against some talented players helps you improve. It’s helped me improve a lot and I’m looking forward to staying there next year and improving even more and getting a spot in the Europa League or even the Champions League. Who knows?,” the 19-year-old added.
But for now Gersbach’s focus is on breaking into the Caltex Socceroos starting side, battling with AFC Bournemouth’s Brad Smith for the spot at left-back.
He has made two appearances in the green and gold so far, both in the friendlies against Greece in June.
Asked about the importance of the game against Saudi Arabia, who are locked at the top of Group B with the Caltex Socceroos, Gersbach said: “I know we’re only two games in but every game is important in these qualifiers.
“With Saudi being on six points as well that means this game is extra important. A win would be fantastic over here.”
