January transfer window ‘back of mind’ for Jason Geria after Socceroos return

Melbourne Victory defender Jason Geria is open to a potential overseas move in January after another assured performance in the Socceroos’ new-look defensive system.

The versatile 31-year-old made his fourth international appearance in the nil-all draw against Saudi Arabia, with the last three all coming consecutively under new coach Tony Popovic.

Geria said his strong relationship with the former Victory manager had helped him settle into a new key defensive trio alongside Harry Souttar and Cam Burgess, who have not conceded a goal to an opponent since Geria was subbed on at halftime during the 3-1 win over China last month.

Souttar said Geria had been an inspired addition to the national set-up after being forced to wait eight years to receive a second cap following his debut in 2016.

“I was aware of Jase for a long time, obviously had never played with him – he came into camp, and then came on second half against China and I thought he was excellent,” he said.

“And I think just that leadership he brings to us as well … he’s obviously flying for Victory this year and scoring a few goals as well.

“He’s an absolutely great addition to the group, and I’m really excited to have him alongside me.”

Geria said he was learning quickly playing alongside Souttar and Burgess, who have been performing well for Championship side Sheffield United and promoted Premier League side Ipswich respectively.

“I guess (overseas opportunities are) in the back of any player’s mind. Opportunities can come from these games – I’m well aware of that,” Geria said.

“Getting to play with Harry and Cam especially – Cam has just come off playing against Tottenham, and Harry’s doing really good things in the Championship.

“I’m really (learning) a lot off playing besides them … even though they’re younger than me.

“I’m just taking everything in my stride … if those opportunities come, they come, but the focus for me is the national team and Melbourne Victory, and the rest will just take care of itself.”

Geria said it had been “incredibly special” to play an international match at AAMI Park in front of friends and family after spending almost a decade of his 12-year professional career at Victory.

He was grateful to Popovic for the chance to return to the level and backed his former club coach to lead the Socceroos to World Cup qualification.

“It’s a night that’s going to hold really high in my memories, for a long time,” Geria said.

“I have a good relationship with (Popovic) – understanding how he works has helped me ease into what he wants for the national team as well.

“It’s been a pleasure to play with him again, and I have a really good feeling he’s going to be the one who takes us back as a national team to where we need to be.”