Oliver Bozanic hoping strong season with FC Lucerne will help him gain selection for World Cup

OLIVER Bozanic is confident that a Swiss role will be the perfect entree for Brazil, having finished his first season with FC Lucerne “on a high”.

Socceroos Westfeild appearance, Pitt St , Sydney 22nd May, Mark Birighitti, Oliver Bozanic and Mark Bresciano. Pic : George Salpigtidis

OLIVER Bozanic is confident that a Swiss role will be the perfect entree for Brazil, having finished his first season with FC Lucerne “on a high” thanks to European qualification.

A barnstorming start after moving from the Mariners saw Bozanic score a clutch of goals in a newly attacking position, giving him belief that his form will be recognised by inclusion in Ange Postecoglou’s final 23 for the World Cup.

“It was a great transition for me, going to Europe to join Lucerne, and we finished the season on a real high by qualifying for the Europa League playoffs,” Bozanic said after joining the provisional squad of 30 in Sydney.

“It was a perfect start for me, scoring seven goals in 10 games — we had a few ups and downs in the season but finished strong.

“I thought the standard there was very good — there are teams battling for the Champions League and Europa spots, and it’s tough but it’s going well. You’re in Europe, with the other big countries watching. I was alternating between attacking and defensive midfield, but the way we play is very versatile, so I can move around.”

Bozanic revealed he had already been offered a contract extension, but was prepared to bide his time in the hope of making his mark on a global stage.

Oliver Bozanic (C) in action for the Mariners back in 2012.

“My aim was to move to Europe, so I’ve been lucky how it worked out — and the timing in terms of the Socceroos. Contract-wise I have one year remaining — I was offered a new deal but at this stage I’m just waiting to see what happens, focusing first on the Socceroos then back on the club.

“I have to be very hopeful [of making the final 23 for Australia] — I’ve just come in but I have a few days to train and prepare for the first game, that’s all I can do to prove myself for the World Cup.”

Originally published as Oliver Bozanic hoping strong season with FC Lucerne will help him gain selection for World Cup