Irvine thrilled with first Socceroos start

Mar 24, 2017 - 4:35 AM Jackson Irvine says his Socceroos starting debut was bittersweet despite being one of the best players on the park in Thursday's 1-1 World Cup qualifying draw with Iraq.

After seven matches off the bench for Australia, Irvine was finally rewarded for his sensational form for English Championship battlers Burton Albion this season by Australia coach Ange Postecoglou.

Irvine was industrious when he needed to be in defence and combined well with the likes of Aaron Mooy and Massimo Luongo to help kick off numerous attacking moves.

"It's hard when I've had a few people say well done, but the overriding emotion is still a bit of disappointment we didn't get all three points," the 24-year-old said.

"But from a personal point of view, for my family and friends, to get a first start in the national team is a great achievement and something you dream about as a kid.

"I couldn't be happier about that.

"There were a few nerves before the game but we've got so many experienced heads in that dressing room and a lot of calming influences.

"Everyone made me feel really comfortable going into the game and relaxed.

"(But) I think my first touch was getting absolutely leathered in the back of the ankle - a nice welcome to the starting XI."

Postecoglou's bold new 3-4-3 system allows for the Socceroos to inject an extra midfielder into the mix, playing to the country's wealth of talent in that area, and Irvine is hopeful it will lead to more opportunities.

"Tommy Rogic is injured, Jimmy Jeggo dropped out injured - these are guys who would definitely be in the 23 as well," he said.

"It shows the strength in depth we have."

Source: AAP