Keanu Baccus insists his focus is only on St Mirren as transfer interest increases after stellar World Cup

Keanu Baccus says it's a “special” feeling to have written his name into the St Mirren history books. The talented midfielder was one of Australia’s stand out performers as they upset the odds to reach the World Cup knock-out stages in Qatar.

His first appearance for the Socceroos, against holders France, ensured he was not only the first Buddie to be named in a World Cup squad but also to play in one. And his new record of Saints player with the most games on the world’s biggest stage, having made four appearances overall, could well stand for many years to come.

The grateful 24-year-old showed his appreciation to everyone at the Paisley club for helping him achieve that impressive feat. Baccus told Renfrewshire Live Sport: “It’s an amazing feeling to be in the history books for St Mirren.

“It is special and it’s big credit to St Mirren for bringing me here, an Aussie boy they hadn’t seen too much of. It was a bit of a gamble for them and for me, leaving home and my family.

“It’s all worked out so well. A big thank you to everyone at the club, from the top right to the bottom.”

Baccus’ energetic performances in Qatar, against Denmark and Argentina in particular, have catapulted him into the transfer spotlight with the January window fast approaching.

Belgian top flight side Gent, Greek giants AEK Athens and English Championship clubs Cardiff City, Huddersfield Town and Millwall are all believed to be keeping tabs on the Saints star, who still has one-and-a-half years remaining on his contract.

With Stephen Robinson’s team returning to Premiership action this weekend at Fir Park against Motherwell, Baccus is keen to keep concentrating on football after a whirlwind six months of his career and his life.

Baccus said: “I just want to keep hitting the ground running. I’ll keep doing my best for St Mirren.

“Of course as any player does, you have dreams of playing at the highest level to help your family and sort them out too.

“You think about it, but it just fuels you to do well for your club. That’s what I’ve learned, you can’t think too far ahead because it can affect you on the field. You take it game by game and enjoy every game.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here a lot. I love everybody here at the club and I’ve just got to keep doing well here.”

When asked about his long-term future ambitions, Baccus admitted he would love to follow in his childhood idol Tim Cahill’s footsteps and make a serious impression in the English top flight.

Midfielder Cahill became a legend for both Everton and Australia, scoring in three World Cups for the Socceroos and regularly hitting the goal-trail for the Toffees.

Baccus also revealed his ideal English destination, adding: “It is a dream of mine to play in the Premier League. That would be massive.

“All of my friends used to play FIFA and used to watch it back at home at all hours of the morning. It’s a dedication.

“I go for Man City. That would be the end goal for me. You have to believe you can make it there one day. You have to keep working hard and I believe I will.

“I got to meet Tim Cahill in the camp in Qatar, he was there doing work for us and he’s a top guy. He’s a great guy to work with and learn from, who played at the top level. I’d love to do the same.”