Keanu Baccus believes his rapid rise to the biggest stage in world football proves he and St Mirren were a match made in heaven.
The Buddies star was over the moon to receive the late night call to say he’d made Australia’s final 26-man squad, earning him a potential shot at some of the greatest players on the planet later this month.
Baccus has made a name for himself through several inspired performances in Paisley since joining the club in the summer, culminating in his Socceroos debut against New Zealand in September.
Now he is hoping to earn his second cap on the ultimate platform with Australia up against current world champions France, Denmark and Tunisia in Group D when the competition kicks off later this month.
Having turned down a host of other clubs courting his signature, including some of St Mirren’s Scottish Premiership rivals, the 24-year-old believes his decision to join the Saints has paid off massively.
Baccus said: "I didn't know whether to cry, smile or laugh. I had a big smile on my face, it was amazing that it happened.
"It is something I have wanted since I started playing soccer at five years old, so it is a great feeling.
"I got the call from the head coach inviting to me to go to Qatar, so it is an amazing feeling.
"I was a bit anxious, I just wanted to know if it was a yes or no but it was great that it was a yes and I am over the moon.
"My family and friends are so happy for me. They have decided to go now - hopefully we can get them over.
"I took the chance to come over here from Australia, I left my family and it worked out well.
"I just want to say thanks to everyone, the players, staff, everyone who has helped and who made this possible.
"I had the chance to go to a different country when I was 21, 22, but I didn't think I was ready. I was playing some good football at that time and was on the brink of the national team but I said no.
"I had this chance and I thought I was old enough to leave my family - it was now or never.
"The gaffer here called me, told me his plan and it has all worked out. He is a big part of me being chosen."
READ MORE:
Don't miss the latest headlines from around Renfrewshire. Sign up to our newsletters here
