Former Perth Glory Coach Bobby Despotovski Applauds Leticia McKenna's Matildas Debut
Bobby Despotovski, the former Perth Glory A-League Women coach, has commended Leticia McKenna on her recent debut for the Matildas, marking the first time a player from Perth has debuted for the national team since Sam Kerr in 2009. Despotovski, a Perth Glory great, believes that for McKenna to solidify her position in the Australian squad, she should consider moving overseas to compete in a more challenging league.
McKenna's Journey and Impact
Leticia McKenna made her debut for Australia on Saturday against Malawi, coming off the bench to score a goal. Sam Kerr, a fellow Perth native, presented McKenna with her first international cap, adding a symbolic touch to the occasion. McKenna's path to the Matildas began in 2018 when Despotovski gave her a debut for Perth Glory at just 16 years old in a 4-4 draw with Canberra United, a match where she also scored.
After her time with Perth Glory, McKenna moved to Brisbane Roar and later played a key role in Melbourne City's three consecutive league titles. Despotovski expressed no surprise at her advancement to the national team, citing her strong work ethic and tactical intelligence as driving factors.
Despotovski's Advice for Overseas Move
Despotovski emphasized that playing overseas could be crucial for McKenna's development and her future with the Matildas. He noted that many current Matildas have benefited from international experience, and McKenna, having already adapted to living away from home by moving from Perth to Brisbane and Melbourne, is well-prepared for such a transition.
"There is always that cliche that you need to be overseas in a better league, and that's not for you to just play for the Matildas, but to better yourself and challenge yourself as a footballer with better players," Despotovski told The West Australian. "All the Matildas did that, and that's where they are now. Maybe Leticia's next step is from Melbourne City to look overseas, maybe Europe. In Europe, they play more games."
He acknowledged the demands of playing abroad, such as being away from family, but highlighted that McKenna has already proven her resilience. Despotovski praised her dedication, recalling that she started her career with minimal financial compensation, showcasing her passion for the sport.
Praise for Sister Tijan McKenna
Despotovski also had high praise for Leticia's younger sister, Tijan McKenna, who plays for Perth Glory. Tijan won the club's player's player of the year award last season and has been a standout performer this year, even while playing out of position at centre-back. Despotovski believes Tijan has the potential to follow in her sister's footsteps and earn a spot on the national team.
"100% I believe in that, and I believe in my heart that Tijan is maybe playing in the wrong position," he said. "That's not me to judge — whatever the coaches want her to play, she does that very well, but I think she's more of a midfielder than a defender. She is taking the game by the scruff of the neck and playing regularly."
Looking Ahead
As Leticia McKenna continues to make waves with the Matildas, Despotovski's insights underscore the importance of international exposure for Australian players. With her debut goal and strong performance, McKenna is poised to become a key figure in the next generation of Matildas, and her potential move overseas could further elevate her career. Meanwhile, Tijan McKenna's progress at Perth Glory keeps the spotlight on WA's rising soccer talent, promising an exciting future for both sisters in the sport.
