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Adelaide United midfielder Riley McGree says he was in disbelief when told of his inclusion in the Socceroos squad. The 18-year-old was chosen in coach Ange Postecoglou's 30-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers after just 12 A-League appearances. "I was lost for words. I didn't know what to say," McGree told reporters on Thursday. "I didn't really think it was true, to be honest." McGree started the season merely trying to get some meaningful A-League minutes. But last-placed Adelaide's woes have gifted the versatile midfielder opportunities. "Coming into the season, I thought that I would get maybe some minutes here and there," he said. "But due to some unfortunate circumstances of injuries and players leaving, I was thrown in at an earlier stage than I expected...[it] has helped me get where I am now." McGree has made an instant impression, with deft skills, high work rate and a touch of tenacity. "I just like to throw my body around, go in hard," he said. "I will never come and intentionally start a fight but if it happens I will be in there," he said. McGree now hopes to make the cut when Postecoglou next week trims seven players from the 30-man squad for World Cup qualifiers against Iraq and the United Arab Emirates. "It will be a good experience, I will be able to learn from the coaching staff and from the players," he said. "I think I will just take it all in my stride and grow from the experience and hopefully do well if I get the opportunity."
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