Football

World Cup 2022: Australia midfielder reveals ‘dream’ Premier League ambitions

World Cup 2022: Australia midfielder reveals ‘dream’ Premier League ambitions

Australia and St Mirren midfielder Keanu Baccus has revealed his ‘dream’ of playing in the Premier League.

The 24-year-old played in all four of Australia’s 2022 World Cup games, with the nation surpassing all expectations and reaching the last 16 in Qatar.

Baccus came off the bench in the group matches against France, Tunisia and Denmark, before starting the round of 16 meeting with Argentina. The fixture against the South Americans was his first start for Australia.

Australia midfielder reveals Premier League ‘dream’

Currently playing in the Scottish Premiership, the midfielder wants to follow the likes of compatriot Tim Cahill in playing Premier League football.

Australian legend Cahill wrote his name into Premier League folklore thanks to his displays for Everton, and Baccus is aiming to earn a similar fate.

“It is a dream of mine to play in the Premier League,” said Baccus, as reported by the Daily Record. “That would be massive. All of my friends used to play FIFA and used to watch it back at home at all hours of the morning. It’s a dedication.

“I go for Man City. That would be the end goal for me. You have to believe you can make it there one day. You have to keep working hard and I believe I will.

“I got to meet Tim Cahill in the camp in Qatar, he was there doing work for us and he’s a top guy. He’s a great guy to work with and learn from, who played at the top level. I’d love to do the same.”

Australia

Australia man focused on St Mirren

With his appearances in Qatar, Baccus has made St Mirren history, becoming the first Saints player to not only be named in a World Cup squad, but to play in a match in the prestigious competition.

His record of four appearances in the tournament may just stand for some time, and such displays have reportedly caught the eye of many clubs across Europe.

The likes of Belgian outfit Gent and Greek side AEK Athens have reportedly been showing an interest in the 24-year-old. English Championship clubs Cardiff, Huddersfield and Millwall have also been linked.

Australia legend and Baccus’ idol Cahill played for Millwall for six years before his move to Everton. Baccus, who has made 15 appearances for this club this season, has one-and-a-half years remaining on his St Mirren deal.

Despite the links, the midfielder is only focused on playing well for his current club, who return to action this weekend with a league match against Motherwell.

“I just want to keep hitting the ground running,” said Baccus. “I’ll keep doing my best for St Mirren. Of course as any player does, you have dreams of playing at the highest level to help your family and sort them out too.

“You think about it, but it just fuels you to do well for your club. That’s what I’ve learned, you can’t think too far ahead because it can affect you on the field. You take it game by game and enjoy every game.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here a lot. I love everybody here at the club and I’ve just got to keep doing well here.”


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