2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia: Socceroos bolter Fran Karacic commits to Australia
CROATIAN-BASED Fran Karacic may have never set foot on Aussie soil but the attack-minded defender is confident of making Bert van Marwijk’s final cut of 23 for the World Cup in Russia.
Socceroos
Don't miss out on the headlines from Socceroos. Followed categories will be added to My News.
CROATIA Under 21 star Fran Karacic declared that he was committed to the Socceroos after his shock World Cup call-up.
Karacic looms as one of the most remarkable World Cup selection bolters stories, having never set foot in Australia, but vowed to give his all to the country that took in his family.
Socceroos coach Bert van Marwijk is eyeing off the dashing, attack-minded Lokomotiva Zagreb defender for the problematic right-back position for Russia 2018.
Karacic, 21, revealed that he rejected a Socceroos call-up last June, with injury sparing the rattled youth a tough decision after also being selected by the Croatian senior national team in the same window.
But Karacic, whose dad was born in Sydney and grandad lived in Australia for over 25 years, said there was no turning back.
“Yes, I’m coming,’’ Karacic told News Corp Australia.
“It’s an honour to play for Australia, I’ll give my all and I’ll play and behave as if I’ve lived there my whole life.
SQUAD: Cahill on track for World Cup record
GROWTH: Arzani goes from sub to Socceroo
“My grandad was down in Australia for almost 30 years, until 2005, before returning to Croatia. Dad was born in Sydney but returned earlier, so through him I have citizenship.
“I’ve had an Australian passport my whole life and I always felt that one day I might play for Australia.
“I’ve never been to Australia. I’ve wanted to go, but with football I’ve never had the chance.
“I understand if people think that (it’s unjust for an Australian-born player who misses out), but I’ll give everything and do my best and other people will decide who’s best for the role.
“I’ve followed the national team, there were some Croatian (heritage) players, some of whom played in Croatia. I’ve followed the results.
“It was my wish to play at a World Cup. I knew if I got the call-up I wouldn’t hesitate. I feel super and I’m delighted with the call-up. It’s a great honour.”
Karacic was confident of making Australia’s final 23-man squad.
“I think so. I have belief in myself, I’ve got rhythm, I’m healthy,’’ he said.
“It’s like I’m dreaming. To play in a World Cup is priceless. Not many people get to experience that.”
Karacic, who’s was identified by long-time Socceroos assistant Ante Milicic, opened up on the tug-of-war that unfolded a year ago, when he was due to play in the Confederations Cup.
“I got two call ups then I got injured and I wasn’t 100 per cent ready so I rejected both,’’ Karacic said.
“I accepted the (Croatia) U21 invite after that. But if I had a call-up from Australia earlier I would’ve gone straight away.
“Now I’ve been picked (by Australia). I’m going, it’s my choice, I’m happy.”
Originally published as 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia: Socceroos bolter Fran Karacic commits to Australia