Central Coast Mariners midfielder Josh Nisbet says it is a “dream come true” to be called up to the Socceroos for the first time, speaking to media on International duty on Monday afternoon.
Nisbet was a late addition to the Socceroos squad over the weekend, after initially not making Graham Arnold’s squad for fixtures against Lebanon this month.
However, after Lewis Miller dropped out of the squad through injury, the Mariners were informed of Nisbet’s call-up, whilst on AFC Cup duty in India and it was Mark Jackson who broke the surprise news in a team meeting.
“The night before I got informed that I would be a call-in player if there were any injuries, when the squad was released all my teammates were disappointed.” Nisbet said.
“We then had a team meeting and the club had been informed. Mark Jackson congratulated me on the PFA Player of the Month then dropped in that I had been called up.”
Josh Nisbet on finding out about his Socceroos call-up
“Nobody reacted because they already knew I hadn’t been called up – then he said we’d had a call this morning that you’re in.” Nisbet said.
“I was pretty stoked, I turned around and all my teammates were on their feet clapping and cheering, some of the players spoke about getting goosebumps so it was pretty nice,” he added.
Nisbet has previously represented Australia at youth level, but has been made to wait for a first senior call-up, which now deservedly comes after a stellar season under Jackson at the Mariners.
It’s a dream come true, as an Australian you dream of playing for the Socceroos. I haven’t done that yet but I am looking forward to the potential opportunity.
Nisbet on his first Socceroos call-up.
“I thought I was playing pretty well at club level and there was some talk about [a call-up] but I wasn’t focussing on it too much as then if it doesn’t happen, you’ll be disappointed. There was some talk about me being in [the squad] and thankfully I am.”
“I just try and play my game and enjoy the moment, the recognition has come and I’m very grateful.”
Nisbet leads the way in assists in the A-League with seven, and has added two goals in March, against Newcastle Jets and Macarthur, helping the Mariners to the top of the A-League.
Our midfield maestro has added a further six assists in our historic AFC Cup run. Missing a total of 28 minutes of that campaign whilst playing every single second of our Isuzu UTE A-League season so far.
Nisbet says the club is ‘flying’ and he is personally enjoying his football. He also confirmed that contrary to rumours, there is no agreement in place for him to leave the club at the end of the season.
“We’re flying at the moment, we did well last season and are doing well this season, and in the AFC Cup as well, every player wants to play as many games as possible.”
I’ve transitioned into a new position which is allowing me to showcase other parts of my game that haven’t been seen before, I’m just enjoying my football and I think that’s why the performances have been following.
Nisbet on his 2023/24 form.
When asked about the rumours of signing elsewhere, Nisbet responded: “That’s not true. I’ve not signed anywhere. We haven’t gone through that stage yet, I haven’t signed anywhere.”
Nisbet went on to set out some personal intentions for his time with the Socceroos, where he will link up with former A-League Championship-winning teammate Sammy Silvera, but goes into a squad with a few slightly more unfamiliar faces.
“It’s my first ever camp so I’m looking to mingle with the boys and build those relationships going, then hopefully if the opportunity comes [on the pitch] I’ll take it.”
I’ve come here to try and get into the squad, with the training sessions I can hopefully do that. I understand that I wasn’t the first picked but football is a funny game and if you impress then things can change.
Nisbet on aiming for a Socceroos debut.
“I’m definitely here to have fun and meet the boys but the first priority is to get as many minutes as I can.” Nisbet added.
I will play whatever role I need to play and whatever style Australia and [Graham Arnold] want. I will do my best for the team, winning these games against Lebanon are really important in qualifying.
“This is a competitive game that has Socceroos’ future on it, we’re coming here to win both games and get closer to qualifying for the World Cup. It’s a great feeling to be part of not jut a friendly, but games that is going to play a part in progressing Australia,” he said.
Watch Nizzy’s full press conference below, via the Football Australia YouTube channel.
