Emile Heskey, a Premier League legend, recently shared his insights on Australian football, particularly why Australia may not be ready to compete on a global scale. Heskey, who played for the Newcastle Jets for two seasons before returning to England, believes that the relaxed lifestyle of footballers in Australia is a key factor holding the country back in terms of football development.
During his time with the Jets, Heskey observed that the attitude among players in Australia was very laid-back compared to the competitive nature of football in Europe. He noted that in England, every game holds significance as teams aim to win trophies, secure promotion, or avoid relegation. However, in Australia, the approach to the game is more casual, with players focusing on simply playing games rather than striving for specific goals.
According to Heskey, the lifestyle in Australia, with its easy access to recreational activities like surfing and swimming, contributes to this relaxed attitude among players. While enjoying such a lifestyle can be beneficial, Heskey pointed out that it can also pose challenges for Australian players transitioning to European clubs where the pace and intensity of the game are much higher.
The former striker highlighted that the shift from a laid-back environment to the fast-paced, competitive nature of European football can be a rude awakening for Australian players. The need to quickly adapt to the rigorous demands of European football, including heightened focus and dedication, can be a significant challenge for players accustomed to a more relaxed approach to the game.
Overall, Heskey’s observations shed light on some of the unique factors that may be hindering Australia’s football scene from reaching greater heights on the global stage. While the country boasts talented players and potential, addressing the cultural differences in attitudes towards the game could be a key step towards advancing Australian football and better preparing players for success on the international level.