Joeys keeper Pavlesic chasing European dream with Roma, Strasbourg auditions

Joeys FIFA U-17 World Cup goalkeeper Adam Pavlesic is trying his luck in Europe, with flying visits to Roma and Strasbourg.

Pavlesic

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Granted permission for the 14-day whirlwind trip to Italy and France by parent club Sydney FC, the highly-regarded youngster spent last week showing off his wares at Roma’s junior academy, before heading to France to link up with the Ligue 1 club for a seven-day stint.

He will return to the Sky Blues at the weekend, where he is third in line behind Andrew Redmayne and Tom Heward-Bell.

Sky Blues CEO Danny Townsend confirmed Sydney had given their blessing for the youngster to explore a possible European frontier after he received invitations from both clubs.

Pavlesic’s reputation as a prospect of considerable promise was enhanced by his performances for Australia in Brazil last month where he played all four matches for Trevor Morgan’s side as they progressed to the last 16.

Standing 189cm, Pavlesic - slick with his feet and a sharp shot-stopper - is composed and mature beyond his years.

With Sydney unlikely to stand in his path, he is keen to further his future overseas, if the right offer can be nailed down.

Joeys coach Morgan was glowing in his assessment of the 17-year-old, telling The World Game: “He has tremendous professionalism, drive and dedication.

“I’m pleased for him that he’s performed so well at the World Cup that these opportunities have come along.

“He had an injury setback in July (a fractured wrist) and he had to overcome that and get himself back on the pitch, which showed his mental strength.

“He’s got power, the ability to make big saves and he’s got leadership qualities.

“He can also accept criticism and move on. He’s just a 100 per cent committed kid who deserves to be part of the national team.

“And if he gets the chance to progress to overseas football I’ll be delighted for him.”


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2 min read
Published 17 December 2019 3:12pm
By Dave Lewis

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