Ambitious Sarkic aims to follow in Kelly’s footsteps
MATIJA SARKIC is determined to follow in the footsteps of Liam Kelly by using his stint at Livingston as a springboard to the international scene.
The 22-year-old, who joined the Lions on loan from English Premier League new boys Aston Villa, already boasts six caps for the Montenegro Under-21 side, for whom he is eligible through his father, Bojan.
He crossed swords with the likes of Moussa Dembele, Olivier Ntcham and eventual World Cup winner Benjamin Pavard at that level when Montenegro faced France.
Sarkic could also represent Belgium, where he was brought up and played youth football with Anderlecht before moving to Villa in 2015, as well as his original birthplace of England.
The ambitious goalkeeper believes he is capable of starring on the international stage and intends to prove it by shining in West Lothian.
That is exactly what Kelly did during a standout campaign last season, ultimately earning a call-up to the Scotland squad before securing a summer switch to QPR.
Sarkic said: “If I do well at Livingston and achieve the goals I have for myself, then hopefully that international call can come soon.
“Montenegro is the country I have been playing for and I chose them because it was where my heart lies but, if all goes to plan, then I might have multiple teams calling! But that will only happen if I do myself justice with Livingston.
“I wouldn’t say that it only takes one good game to make a name for yourself in Scotland, but with a few good performances in high-profile games against massive clubs like Celtic and Rangers, it could be vital for your career and be a real springboard. That was one of the main attractions of coming to this league. That’s why a lot of players come to the Scottish league.
“This is a chance to show everyone that I can become what they think I have the potential to be. That’s why I came here.”
However, Sarkic is acutely aware that he must cement the No.1 at Almondvale before he can pursue more lofty goals.
Livi boss Gary Holt has given both Sarkic and Ross Stewart an opportunity to stake a claim for the gloves during their Betfred campaign and, with the former set to take his place between the sticks against Berwick today, both men will have played twice.
The fraught fight to become first choice is one Sarkic is relishing.
“I’m enjoying the challenge and it’s a major positive because it keeps us both really sharp in training. It adds a little bit of pressure. But I thrive from having that little extra push.”
Barring an almighty upset, Livingston will secure top spot in Group G and cruise into the last-16 this afternoon, with the Lions hosting a Berwick Rangers side who have lost all three of their fixtures.
“We just need to kick on, finish the job and top the group,” Sarkic said.