The chance to enjoy some family time in Wollongong has given Tate Russell a "reset of the mind" as he continues preparation for the upcoming A-League Men's season.
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After a breakout 2020/21 season, where he lined up in the Western Sydney Wanderers' defence on 22 occasions, Russell is keen to take his game to the next level.
The left wing back returned home during the off-season and relished the chance to relax.
He also benefitted from some honest chats with his father, Illawarra Steelers legend Ian Russell.
"I definitely admire the way dad carried himself through his career. Dad sits back and will answer questions if I come to him, but he also lets me figure out things for myself," Russell said.
"I feel like it's one of those things where I can grow as a person being in this environment with the club, and it's helped me grow up to to be a young man now. I'm still living in the Gong and it's been good being surrounded by family. It's basically given me a reset of the mind.
"I've been able to sit down and see what I want to do with this year. I've been working with the coaching staff at Wanderers and seeing where my game can improve. Being more of a consistent starter last season solidified my spot in that starting 11, so it's about being more positive and confident in my game."
The Wanderers are looking to improve on a disappointing 2020/21 campaign, where they missed out on finals. Since, the club has been active in recruiting, bringing in plenty of experience led by Rhys Williams, Tomer Hemed, Adama Traore and Terry Antonis.
However, Russell's ability to provide drive from defence should prove equally as important for the men in red and black. The 22-year-old also hasn't been afraid to shoot, highlighted by a rocket launch from the edge of the box to give Western Sydney a 3-1 advantage against Macarthur last season.
"The gaffer (Carl Robinson) has said to me that he trusts me. He's confident with my ability that I can do what the team needs going forward, but I can also go back and do what's needed in defence," Russell said.
"Being at a big club like the Wanderers, it comes with expectations from the club and supporters especially. But I'll take that expectation on board and it's fuel for the fire to go out and perform."
The Wanderers have been back at pre-season training for several weeks, with their season kicking off against Sydney FC on November 20.
"The last few weeks have been about forming that bond with the players around us, seeing how everyone plays and to keep gelling as a team," Russell said.
"We've that belief within ourselves. We have such a strong team and a lot of talent this year, as in previous years. Definitely the goal is to reset from last year, put it behind us and look forward to a whole new season."
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Joshua Bartlett
A sporting fanatic who is keen to promote all codes in the Illawarra and abroad. Mercury's chief football reporter.
A sporting fanatic who is keen to promote all codes in the Illawarra and abroad. Mercury's chief football reporter.
