‘Grateful’ Taggart relishing opportunity to impress ahead of World Cup qualifiers

Potent striker Adam Taggart feels he can “always contribute with goals” as he aims to leave a mark on Socceroos coach Tony Popovic during the next stage of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying.

Australia is in the midst of a stressful campaign, currently sitting one point ahead of Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and China with four matches remaining.

Taggart, 31, returns to the Socceroos fold after last appearing under Graham Arnold for Australia’s World Cup qualifiers in September.

Having already contributed seven goals for his country as well as seven goals and three assists at club level for a struggling Perth Glory outfit this season, Taggart is hoping to put his best foot forward.

“I’m grateful to be here, grateful for the opportunity. I’ll give as much as I can to the team and help everyone out as much as I can, whatever role that is, and I’ll be ready,” Taggart said.

“I’m always trying to set high standards. I feel I can always contribute with goals. So that’s something I’ll look to do here, and just try and take the opportunity as best as I can.”

When asked about the squad’s potential, Taggart believes there is plenty of quality to work with, especially in the final third, where he will seek pinpoint service.

“There’s obviously some top players here,” he admitted. “With the games that I’ve watched so far over the past few camps, it’s looked really good, and we look like an organised team. We’re creating those chances. I always believe in myself to put those away.

“I think it gives me confidence having that quality in the team and those creative players, so I’m looking forward to that. With chances, you’re always going to have the opportunity to score. I’d back myself to do so.”

Taggart will play under Popovic for the first time, which offers the experienced forward a chance to work alongside a new coach with fresh ideas.

Last season’s A-League Men Golden Boot winner is determined to provide a good first impression.

“I’ve heard a lot of good things over the time that [Popovic] has been around, and unfortunately, I haven’t been able to work with him before,” Taggart revealed.

“So just looking forward to this opportunity and being part of something that I’ve heard so much about.”

The Socceroos continue their quest for a sixth consecutive World Cup appearance when they take on Indonesia at Sydney Football Stadium at 8:10pm AEDT on Thursday night.

Taggart’s last Socceroos cap came against Indonesia off the bench in a 0-0 draw in what ended up being Graham Arnold’s final match in charge before stepping down.

However, instead of playing away from home in front of 78,000 screaming Indonesians, it’s advantage Australia in what should be an expected sell-out of 45,000.

“Playing at home is massive. We’re playing at a beautiful stadium in a great city who I know will get behind us,” Taggart said.

“I’m definitely looking forward to it personally. I think it gives you that extra bit of push behind you. Knowing what’s on the line and having our home fans behind us in a massive game is a great way to start this camp, and will give us that extra little bit of energy to make sure that we get it over the line.”