AUSTRALIA legend Paul Wade insists Celtic’s Tom Rogic is a future
Socceroos captain.
Rogic joined up with his countrymen on a high after helping the Hoops clinch the domestic treble with a stunning winner in last month’s Scottish Cup final win over Aberdeen.
Former international skipper Wade, who picked up 84 caps, has been hugely impressed by the 24-year-old’s form at club level and for Australia ahead of today’s World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia.
And he also paid tribute to Huddersfield’s star Aaron Mooy who fired Town to the Premier League during his loan spell from Manchester City last season.
Wade said: “Tom is on fire and coming in with just as much confidence as Aaron Mooy, to do the things those two have done this season – wow.
“Tom brings absolute class, he’s comfortable under pressure and in the heat of battle we all play at 100 miles an hour.
“But if you want to take the steam out of the game and add some class, he’s your man. He handles pressure well, anyone who can handle the pressure of the Scottish Premiership I’m sure can handle Saudi Arabia in Adelaide with everyone supporting you.”
Wade thinks the classy midfielder still has to gain the experience needed to lead his nation, but is certain he will be their skipper some day. He said: “Absolutely no doubt. He’ll have to put in a few more years yet because it’s all right being a cool cat but you’ve got to have the experience.
“You’ve got to know pressure situations and not only deal with them yourself, but have an influence on the team, and only experience can provide that. But that will come with time.”
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