Perth Glory’s Jason Davidson has labelled head coach Tony Popovic has the “main reason” why he returned to Australia after nine years abroad.
Davidson signed for the Glory this season after stints at multiple clubs across Europe and told FNR_Football Nation Radio it was Popovic’s honesty which motivated his decision to return.
“Once I spoke to Tony on the phone about where he thought I was at I was convinced,” Davidson said.
“You know where you stand with him and that’s what I needed.”
According to Davidson, Popovic’s style of coaching has helped him grow as a player during his time at the Glory so far, praising his manager’s “incredible attention to detail.”
“Individually it’s something I needed in my career, he’s a hard task master and expects perfection in everything we do,” Davidson said.
While Davidson is happy to be back playing in Australia, he says playing in various leagues around Europe improved his mental strength in addition to his football.
“It’s been hard but, in every country I’ve played in I’ve developed a different style to my game,” Davidson said.
“In Holland most of the teams play a 4-4-3 which meant I came across many skilled wingers whereas in the Championship I had to bulk up due to the physicality.”
Davidson impressed in his Glory debut in the 1-1 draw with Western Sydney Wanderers.
Perth travel to Melbourne to face Melbourne Victory on Sunday in Round 2 of the A-League.
Evenings on FNR airs daily from 6pm (AEDT).
