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Western Sydney Wanderers star Angus Thurgate has revealed he is 'forever grateful' to his parents for allowing him to chase his professional football dream - and why he stayed in the A-League following the collapse of Western United.
Speaking to the Daily Mail ahead of this weekend's Sydney Derby, the midfielder recalled the sacrifices made when he was a teenager by his mum and dad.
'Looking back now, it was pretty incredible,' the 25-year-old said.
'I grew up in Port Macquarie (on the mid-north coast of NSW), and at 14 I was picked in the (Newcastle) Jets Academy squad.
'It is roughly a 500km round trip....so for my parents to drive me back and forth multiple times a week, often after a full day at work, I will be forever grateful.'
Thurgate made his A-League debut with the Jets in 2018 aged just 17, and quickly became a fan favourite during his five seasons at the club due to his tenacity and football IQ.
Western Sydney Wanderers star Angus Thurgate has revealed why he stayed in the A-League following the collapse of Western United in August
After joining the Newcastle Jets' Academy squad aged 14, Thurgate (pictured, left) progressed to the first team and made his debut aged 17 in 2018
When it comes to one day testing himself overseas, Thurgate has an open mind (pictured, with partner Emily Taylor)
In a bid to get out of his comfort zone, Thurgate then moved to Western United two years ago to play under Socceroos legend John Aloisi - and was the club's Player of the Year last season.
When the club was sensationally stripped of their A-League licence in August, a nervous Thurgate left his playing future in the hands of his manager.
Thankfully it didn't take long for the Wanderers to reach out - with the security of a three-year contract.
'It's a big club and we have a quality coach in Staj (Alen Stajcic), he is a great man- manager,' Thurgate, who has also played for the Young Socceroos, said.
'While results haven't followed so far this season, I feel we are heading in the right direction.
'It was good to get a win (last start) against the Mariners, and we are all looking forward to playing Sydney FC, they are a good team.
'I've watched the (Sydney) derby for a few years, so I'm buzzing to be playing in one now....at home as well, we are keen to put on a show.'
When it comes to testing himself overseas, Thurgate has an open mind.
'I've always said (to family and friends) if the right offer comes along, I'll certainly look into it,' he said.
'But for now I'm happy in Sydney, I've got my missus, our dog and family close by.
'I won't head abroad just for the sake of it.'
Saturday's Sydney derby is at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta from 7.35pm AEDT, with live coverage on Paramount+ and 10 Drama.
