Adelaide United goalkeeper Joe Gauci has revealed why he has committed his future to the A-League – and how the Reds can overcome the loss of inspirational captain Craig Goodwin to Saudi Arabia.
In a wide-ranging interview with Daily Mail Australia, the articulate shot-stopper also emphasized that patience is key when it comes to electrifying young gun Nestory Irankunda.
The 23-year-old praised the influence of goalkeeping coach Eugene Galekovic on his own game.
Ahead of Friday night’s season opener against the Central Coast Mariners at Hindmarsh Stadium, Gauci is relieved that the pre-season – the longest in world football – is finally over.
Now is the time to get results, starting with the winners of last season’s ALM grand final.
Adelaide United goalkeeper Joe Gauci has revealed why he has committed his future to the A-League
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 enjoyed his time in camp under Graham Arnold
“You can only play so many matches, all you want to do as a footballer is be part of competitive matches,” Gauci said.
‘The more matches, the better. Personally, I would like to see a scenario where we play each team three times (in the home and away season) plus finals, that would be a similar model to Europe and Asia.
“We’re ready to go and while some people will (probably) write us off after Craig (Goodwin) leaves, this 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 cannot wait to see youngster Nestory Irankunda in full flight after the teenager was largely used as an impact player by Carl Veart in the last campaign.
“Nestory… he was hyped by you (media) last season, and that’s fine, he’s definitely a talent,” he said.
“From training with him, I know firsthand that the power he generates when shooting is incredible.
‘But people shouldn’t forget that he’s a child, only seventeen. He just wants to run at players and try to score goals.
“I think he needs to be left alone to play consistent football. It seems like some fans think he’s going to score every time he touches the ball, which is unrealistic.
“He’s still learning his craft, but I can say I’m glad he’s on my team.”
Gauci stressed that patience is key when it comes to exciting young gun Nestory Irankunda
The shot-stopper also praised the influence of Eugene Galekovic (the two were pictured together when Gauci was a youngster)
Gauci, who made his A-League debut with Adelaide in 2020 and has represented the Socceroos since, believes his game has gone to a new level under the guile of Galekovic, who is himself a club legend with the Reds after making 238 appearances in a decade . from 2007.
“He’s been huge,” 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 a difference.”
Much has been said about Gauci’s own future, but after being handed a three-year contract extension in April, the gloveman isn’t going anywhere.
“Like any aspiring 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 if the right door opens, but for me the playing time is crucial.
‘I will continue to work hard to remain first choice, football can change very quickly, I know that.
‘I’m excited about this season. I really believe that as a team we can achieve special things, so that is my immediate focus and playing my role.’
