Maclaren out to make Levein eat his words as he bids for World Cup place
Jamie Maclaren wants to make Craig Levein eat his words and he is hoping that, if he can play a pivotal part in serving up some revenge, then he will boost his chances of feasting on some massive games for his country this summer.
The Australian striker, who joined Hibs on loan in January made the move to Scotland in the hope of forcing his way back into the international squad and, having been named in Bert van Marwijk’s squad for this month’s friendlies against Norway and Colombia, he is hoping some good high-profile performances and an eye-catching end to the season will result in him being included in the Socceroos squad for the World Cup, in Russia.
He already has five caps but, during a disappointing spell in Germany, he drifted out the squad, which is why he jumped at the chance to join Neil Lennon at Hibs, and with a few positive performances under his belt already, including the match-winning goal against Rangers and some influential play against both Aberdeen and Kilmarnock, he believes his decision to come to Leith has already been vindicated.
“It’s good to see my form has got some recognition from the new manager,” said the 24-year-old, who has developed a good understanding with fellow frontmen Florian Kamberi and Scott Allan. “I knew if I was playing regular- ly and my form was good, I’d have a chance.
“It was only a year ago that I was winning the Golden Boot in Australia so it’s nice to be back on the radar. Now I have just got to kick on. The World Cup is just around the corner. I just need to impress.”
Tonight’s derby affords him the platform to do just that. He had just joinedhibs when the