Martin Boyle admits that the disappointment of not being part of Australia’s best performance in a World Cup still stings, as the Socceroos wing player aims to aid his nation in securing qualification for the upcoming competition.
Nearly three years after missing out on the World Cup in Qatar due to a knee injury, Hibernian's winger Boyle is eager to help the Socceroos take a significant step towards qualifying for the 2026 tournament in North America.
The 31-year-old player has dismissed all worries about a strained groin, which originated during last Thursday's 5-1 victory at home against Indonesia, ensuring he will be ready for selection when Tony Popovic names his team ahead of Tuesday’s clash with China in Hangzhou.
The Australian national team has the chance to solidify their hold on the second automatic qualifying position in Group C with a win against China, which would bring Boyle's World Cup dreams nearer to becoming a reality.
Boyle mentions that not being part of the 2022 World Cup remains difficult for him to discuss.
"One of my most proud achievements in football was qualifying for that final World Cup, knowing I played a part and assisted the team fills me with great joy," he shared.
I aim to recreate that experience and repeat it; should I continue performing, I can maintain that accomplishment of participating in another World Cup.
I served as the vibe coordinator and had an excellent experience. I cherished every moment while backing the guys.
Although it didn’t turn out as I had hoped, I felt just as accomplished being my genuine self at the camp. However, I aspire to have that same sensation during the game.
Boyle has been performing exceptionally well for Hibs, contributing significantly to their impressive 14-match undefeated streak in the Scottish Premiership. Earlier this year, they were even considered potential candidates for relegation.
Even though he has scored nine goals and provided four assists in 28 league matches for third-place Hibernian, Boyle hasn’t signed a contract extension past this season.
He has expressed openness to concluding his career in Australia, yet for the time being, the Aberdeen-native winger aims to continue challenging himself as he strives to stay within Popovic's plans.
Boyle netted the opening goal in last week's victory against Indonesia with a penalty kick.
“I didn’t start training with the group due to an injury, but some of the guys who returned shared that Popovic’s expectations are quite high,” Boyle stated.
When you believe you’re performing well, remember there’s always room for improvement; occasionally, you might require an additional boost.
As I'm slightly more experienced, I can handle critique gracefully and adjust to his playing style. I’m constantly seeking to acquire new knowledge.