Burgess’s Stellar Form Puts Him on Socceroos Radar, Says Jets Coach Milligan
Newcastle Jets’ midfield maestro, Max Burgess, is emerging as a strong contender for Socceroos selection, according to his coach Mark Milligan. Burgess, a creative force from a deeper midfield role, has been instrumental in the Jets’ remarkable seven-game winning streak, propelling them to a five-point lead at the summit of the A-League Men table.
The 31-year-old playmaker, who was previously sidelined at Sydney FC under Ufuk Talay last season, has found a new lease on life with the first-year Jets coach Milligan. Burgess’s impact was further highlighted when he was named man-of-the-match in the recent Australia Cup final.
Milligan’s decision to reposition Burgess from an attacking midfielder to a No. 6 holding role has proven to be a masterstroke. Donning the captain’s armband, Burgess orchestrated play from the heart of midfield as Newcastle secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Perth at HBF Park.
“Obviously yes, he’s probably better known as a No. 10 or a wide player coming inside but we just saw attributes in him and his willingness to get on the ball and defensively as well to organise and do all the dirty stuff that the No. 6 has to do as well,” Milligan explained. “He’s taken it on board and he leads by example by his actions and his determination to become a better player. I think Max is still becoming a better player every single day.”
Milligan, a veteran of 80 Socceroos caps, a past Asian Cup winner, and a four-time World Cup participant, possesses unparalleled insight into the calibre of player required for national team representation. He believes Burgess, despite his current club form, is on the cusp of national team recognition.
“Look, I don’t want to put any pressures on him or anything like that but he’s still only 31,” Milligan continued. “There’s a lot of football for the national team to come up and I think he’s someone they should be looking at. That comes down to the hard work that he’s done from the very first moment that he’s walked in.”
A Resurgent Career Under Milligan’s Guidance
Burgess’s journey to this point has been one of resurgence. He initially showed glimpses of his potential as a future star at Western United during the 2020-21 season. However, a period of frustration led him to seek a return to Sydney FC, where he experienced mixed success, showcasing moments of brilliance without consistent impact. His move to the Jets under Milligan has unlocked a new level of performance.
“He was one obviously early on I was extremely excited to get because I think he has some fantastic attributes as a footballer,” Milligan stated. “From the moment he walked through the door at the Jets he’s been the ultimate professional. He leads by example and that’s what you want from your older players. There’s a couple of them, it’s not just Maxy – but he’s taken the bull by the horns in that sense.”
Once recognised as a talented but sometimes inconsistent attacker, Burgess has embraced his transformed role with enthusiasm. He credits his coach’s experience and the team’s playing style for his current form.
“We’ve got Millsy who obviously had a great career as a midfielder,” Burgess commented. “So learning off him. We’re a ball-playing side, so for me it’s great playing a bit deeper.” This strategic shift, coupled with Burgess’s dedication and newfound maturity, has not only revitalised his career but also placed him firmly on the national team’s radar.
Key Factors Behind Burgess’s Success:
- Strategic Role Change: Transitioning to a No. 6 holding midfield position has allowed Burgess to leverage his vision and passing range while contributing defensively.
- Leadership Qualities: Wearing the captain’s armband, Burgess leads by example, demonstrating commitment and inspiring his teammates.
- Coaching Influence: Mark Milligan’s experience as a world-class midfielder and his astute tactical approach have been crucial in Burgess’s development.
- Professionalism and Dedication: Burgess has consistently displayed a high level of professionalism and a strong desire to improve since joining the Jets.
- Team Dynamics: The Jets’ “ball-playing” philosophy under Milligan provides an ideal environment for Burgess to thrive in his deeper midfield role.
As the A-League Men season progresses, Max Burgess’s consistent performances and leadership are not only driving the Newcastle Jets’ success but also making a compelling case for his inclusion in the upcoming Socceroos squads. His journey is a testament to the impact of the right coaching, a strategic role change, and a player’s unwavering commitment to evolving his game.
