After a fine domestic season the 22-year-old starred for Australia at the recent East Asian Cup.
Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder Aaron Mooy says his success during the past year is down to Tony Popovic.
Under the guidance of former Crystal Palace defender the Wanderers enjoyed a remarkable debut campaign in the A-League and won the Premier’s Plate, with Mooy featuring 23 times in his first term with the club.
The 22-year-old returned to Australia last year after indifferent spells in England and Scotland in search of regular first-team football and ended up at the Parramatta Stadium with his excellent form resulting in a call-up to the Socceroos squad for the the East Asian Cup.
Mooy certainly caught the eye in South Korea with a stunning goal against China and credits 2012/13 coach of the year Popovic for his rapid rise into the spotlight
“He was obviously very experienced as a player playing overseas and for the Socceroos a number of times so he has a lot of knowledge for the game,” he told Football Australia.
“He is strict which is good for the players, keeping us on our toes.
“I am continuing to learn at the club so I am very happy here.”
Following a season that surpassed all expectation’s Mooy is targeting silverware with the Wanderers in the 2013/14 campaign.
“The team and I both want to pick up where we left off last season,” he added.
“This year we want both the league title and to win the grand final.
“We are always looking to improve and know we have to as it is only going to be tougher this year.”
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