A year ago, when 19-year-old Connor Pain was lining up in the Victorian Premier League, he never thought he’d be playing in front of 95,000 plus at the MCG.
A year ago, when 19-year-old Connor Pain was lining up in the Victorian Premier League, he never thought he’d be playing in front of 95,000 plus at the MCG.
It’s been a busy few months for Pain, who flew back to Korea on national duty.
Pain was released from the national squad, along with ‘keeper Nathan Coe, to play in his club’s match against English giants, Liverpool.
He said playing against some of his childhood heroes was one of the biggest nights in his short career.
“When teams like Liverpool roll into town, you’re always going to lift and fight for every ball,” Pain said.
“We did as well because we stuck to the principles Ange (Postecoglou) has set and it should bode well for the season ahead.
“I never really dreamt of this happening, now that I’m here I’m trying to enjoy it – it is still very surreal.”
He received high-praise for his efforts against Liverpool, with manager Brendan Rodgers making a point of seeking him out following Wednesday night’s match.
“It’s nice when poeple say nice things about you of course, but it doesn’t change what we are trying to do or change what I’m trying to do – I’ve just got to keep playing well,” he said.
Pain will return to pre-season training in August, along with Socceroos & Victory teammates Coe, Mark Milligan, Mitch Nichols and Archie Thompson following the EAFF East Asian Cup in Korea.
Pain also recently spent time with the Young Socceroos at the FIFA U20 World Cup, where he performed strongly, together with Scott Galloway and Jason Geria.
