Adelaide United goalkeeper Joe Gauci has revealed why he pledged his future to the A-League – and how the Reds can overcome the loss of inspirational skipper Craig Goodwin to Saudi Arabia.

In a wide-ranging interview with Daily Mail Australia, the articulate shot-stopper also stressed patience is key when it comes to electrifying young gun Nestory Irankunda. 

The 23-year-old went onto laud the influence of goalkeeping coach Eugene Galekovic on his own game.

Speaking ahead of Friday night’s season opener against the Central Coast Mariners at Hindmarsh Stadium, Gauci is relieved pre-season – the longest in world football – is finally over.

Now is the time to deliver, starting with the ALM grand final winners from last season.

Adelaide United goalkeeper Joe Gauci has revealed why he pledged his future to the A-League

Adelaide United goalkeeper Joe Gauci has revealed why he pledged his future to the A-League 

Gauci also believes the Reds can overcome the loss of inspirational skipper Craig Goodwin to Saudi Arabia

Gauci also believes the Reds can overcome the loss of inspirational skipper Craig Goodwin to Saudi Arabia

The 23-year-old has already represented the Socceroos and relished his time in camp under Graham Arnold

The 23-year-old has already represented the Socceroos and relished his time in camp under Graham Arnold

‘You can only play so many trials, as footballers, all you want to do is be a part of competitive games,’ Gauci said.

‘The more fixtures the better, personally I would like to see a scenario where we play every team three times [in the home and away season] plus finals, that would be a similar model to Europe and Asia. 

‘We are ready to go and while some people will [probably] write us off after Craig [Goodwin] left, it presents an opportunity for someone else to step up.

‘You can’t replace a player like him overnight, but the reality is we are a development league….he got an opportunity abroad and took it.’

Gauci also can’t wait to see young gun Nestory Irankunda in full flight, after the teenager was largely used as an impact player by Carl Veart last campaign. 

‘Nestory….he was hyped by you guys [media] last season, and that’s fine, he is certainly a talent,’ he said.

‘I know first hand from training with him, the power he generates when shooting is unbelievable.

‘But people need to remember he is a kid.. only 17. He just wants to run at players and try and score goals.

‘I think he should be left alone to play consistent football, it seems some fans think he is going to score every time he touches the ball, which is unrealistic.

‘He is still learning his craft, but I will say I am glad he is on my team.’

Gauci stressed patience is key when it comes to electrifying young gun Nestory Irankunda

Gauci stressed patience is key when it comes to electrifying young gun Nestory Irankunda

The shot-stopper also lauded the influence of Eugene Galekovic (the pair are pictured together when Gauci was a youngster)

The shot-stopper also lauded the influence of Eugene Galekovic (the pair are pictured together when Gauci was a youngster)

Gauci, who made his A-League debut with Adelaide in 2020 and has since represented the Socceroos, believes his game has gone to a new level under the guile of Galekovic, who is a club legend himself at the Reds after 238 appearances over a decade from 2007 onwards.

‘He has been immense,’ Gauci said.

‘We focus on technique and game management…I can’t thank him enough, his wisdom has been invaluable.

‘He tells me to listen, learn and implement….and the little things can make all the difference.’  

Plenty has been said about Gauci’s own future, but after penning a three-year contract extension in April, the gloveman isn’t going anywhere.

‘Like any ambitious footballer, I am driven to get the best out of my career,’ he said.

‘I believe in the club, that’s why I extended my time here. I will test myself abroad when the right door opens, but for me, game time is crucial.

‘I will keep working hard to remain first choice, football can change very quickly, I know that.

‘I am excited about this season, I truly believe we can achieve special things as a squad, so that is my immediate focus, playing my part.’ 

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Post source: Daily mail

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