New Roo Patrick Yazbek never had any intention of playing for Lebanon

Patrick Yazbek is proud of his Lebanese heritage but representing Australia was always his priority.

Patrick Yazbek (right) has settled in well with the Socceroos. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Despite his Lebanese heritage, Patrick Yazbek has only ever wanted to play for the Socceroos.

And having rejected the Cedars’ advances, the former Sydney FC midfielder’s dream came true when he made his debut for Australia’s senior national team, coming on as a substitute in his side’s 5-0 thrashing of Lebanon in Tuesday night’s AFC second-round World Cup qualifier in Canberra.

“I was born and raised in Australia,” the proud Yazbek said.

“I do have that Lebanese heritage from my dad in particular who was born there, and my mum with Lebanese parents but who was born in Australia, but for me I’ve always wanted to be a Socceroo.

“I’ve had all the photos in my room ever since I’ve been young. It’s just a dream come true.

“It’s an honour to represent Australia.”

The Socceroos celebrate during their 5-0 win over Lebanon. Picture: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

Before the match, Lebanon coach Miodrag Radulovic questioned why Yazbek would want to sit on the bench for Australia when he could be a “leader” with the Cedars.

“That’s just his opinion. He’s got to look after his team, so he’s entitled to say what he wants,” Yazbek said.

“I know that playing for Australia has been my dream since I first kicked a ball.

“It’s such a privilege to be Australian because we have so much opportunity here and it’s something that I don’t take for granted, (but) as much as I am an Aussie, I do have that touch with my Lebanese side and it’s just a blessing to play for Australia.”

Making the occasion more special on Tuesday was Yazbek providing an assist for John Iredale – another ex-Sky Blues youth player – to score his first goal for the Socceroos.

John Iredale celebrates after scoring his first goal for the Socceroos. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

“I’m happy to contribute, and the main goal is to keep contributing,” said Yazbek, who joined Norwegian club Viking in February last year.

“That’s also performing at club land, but I just want to be involved here as much as I can.

“It’s something that I definitely will remember forever.”

As will Iredale, who became teary after scoring in just his second Socceroos appearance.

“It means the world to me – I’ve been dreaming of that moment,” the 24-year-old Germany-based marksman said.

“I dedicate that goal to two very special people in my life, my fiancee, it’s her birthday … and to my Pop. He missed the last game (last Thursday’s 2-0 win over Lebanon) because he was in hospital, (but) he fought hard and got himself home to watch this game from the lounge. so I’m very happy to get that goal.”

Originally published as New Roo Patrick Yazbek never had any intention of playing for Lebanon