Jimmy Jeggo admits his Caltex Socceroos call-up came as a surprise but feels he is a better player since his move to Austrian club Sturm Graz.
The 24-year-old is the new face in the Australian squad for the two upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers, starting with Saudi Arabia in Jeddah on Friday morning (AEDT).
Preview: Saudi Arabia v Caltex Socceroos
While it might have come as a shock to the former Adelaide and Melbourne Victory playmaker, he’s arrived in camp in excellent form after a brilliant start his season in Austria.
Jeggo has played all 10 matches for his club, which is flying six points clear at the top of the league.
“One of the main reasons for going over there was to experience another league and to improve my game and certain aspects of my game…I think that’s been the case,” Jeggo told FFA TV.
“The team plays a slightly different style of football to what I’ve played in Australia which can only help me improve. And we’ve had a good start to the season which really helps personally when you’re settling in.
“It’s been a good start and I’m just looking to continue that and keep improving.”
Jeggo admitted he went into the new season hoping to “catch Ange’s attention” and break into the Socceroos fold as the Road to Russia intensifies.
Having worked under Postecoglou previously during his time at Melbourne Victory, the Vienna-born midfielder is loving being back under his tutelage again.
“He [Postecoglou] sets his standards very high and that was something I really enjoyed at Victory.
“It’s the type of environment you can improve and it gives you everything you need to be successful.”
Following the clash with Saudi Arabia, the Caltex Socceroos will return to Australia for Tuesday night’s game against Japan in Melbourne.
