Riley McGree Aims to Overcome Injury Setbacks for Australia Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

Middlesbrough's Riley McGree is determined to shake off injury troubles as he prepares for key international fixtures with Australia.

Riley McGree is determined to put his injury troubles behind him as he strives to reclaim his position as a pivotal player for Middlesbrough.

The Australian has faced a challenging two seasons plagued by fitness issues, and he is now focused on demonstrating his readiness to national team coach Tony Popovic during Australia's training camp in Abu Dhabi.

Last season was disappointing for McGree, who managed only 18 appearances across all competitions. His ongoing battle with injuries has frustrated both him and the coaching staff at Boro, with his limited contributions culminating in just one goal. In light of these challenges, the club sought the advice of specialists towards the end of the season to identify any underlying health concerns.

As the campaign concluded, McGree made efforts to return to training; however, he was ultimately unable to participate in the final four matches. Now back with the Australian squad, he is eager to showcase his fitness in preparation for World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia.

At the training camp, McGree expressed his frustration with his recent inactivity, stating, “It's obviously frustrating being out, not being able to do what I love. For me, the best part about it is I can put my head to the pillow at night knowing that I'm doing everything I can to stay fit and be fit.” He added, “I've been working hard for a long time to try and get my body right, and it's starting to come good. So hopefully I can stay on top of it, keep progressing, and get to where I want to be. It feels great. It's always an honour for me to come into camp.”

McGree acknowledged the significance of proving his fitness to the coaching staff, remarking, “It was just a matter of me getting to a place in my body where I'm fit enough to be able to try and produce my best, and I'll put my best foot forward. Whether they see me fit, or if they don't see me fit, then that's the decision they're going to make. I will give myself the best opportunity - and I'll give this team, and them, the best opportunity - to make that decision.”

Joining McGree in Abu Dhabi is Middlesbrough goalkeeper Tom Glover. However, players whose clubs have yet to complete their fixtures are absent from this training camp, which occurs outside the international window. Both McGree and Glover will be keen to leave a strong impression ahead of the final squad selection for the World Cup qualifiers.

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