Rhyan Grant is learning what it is like to juggle playing some of the best football of his career to becoming a father and dealing with off-the-pitch challenges. He spoke about what this means to him following his two-year contract extension with the Sky Blues.
The four-time Championship winner has had an unforgettable week with Sydney FC, defeating cross-town rivals Western Sydney Wanderers, equalling his highest goals per season record (three) and extending his contract with the club.
Grant was also named captain against the Wanderers due to Luke Brattan’s suspension.
But when the three-time Premiership winner was asked whether he would like to be captain in the future, he said that he was keen to contribute as much to the team as possible.
“Whether I’m captain or not doesn’t change my role dramatically.
“It’s not something I have on my goals list, but if the offer comes up, I’ll do it and be very proud to do it. But until that game comes, I’m happy to play my part.”
“Brattan is a great leader, speaks really well, and gets around the boys. He adds a lot in terms of that. We bounce off each other anyway, and it’s good that Brattsy is back this week not just as a leader but as a player because of what he does when he’s out there, so we’ll see what happens with that.
In addition to his captaincy, Grant explained that his life outside of football is thriving.
Following the birth of his daughter, Bobby, three months ago, his life has changed dramatically.
“I’ve got a little girl who’s a few months old, keeping me on my toes and giving me some sleepless nights, so that’s been fun trying to navigate.
“I’m enjoying every aspect of my life, and it’s nice to finish a good week against our biggest rivals; to cap it off with an extension is a pretty good week,” the Sydney FC right-back said.
When talking about the goal that he scored from his head in the fourth minute to equal his highest goals per season record, Grant was upbeat, saying:
“[Goalscoring] is not something people know me for, but I’ve scored a couple of important goals over the years, so it’s nice to have three [this season].
“We’re scoring a lot of goals from the set piece, so hopefully, I can add some more.
“Coming off the weekend, it was one of the most satisfying goals for sure.”
Grant’s first match, following his two-year extension with Sky Blues, will come against Brisbane Roar this Sunday evening at Allianz Stadium.
This Australia Cup Final rematch is significant, as the Sky Blues will look to rise as high as third, whilst the Brisbane Roar will aim to cut their growing ladder deficit between the top and bottom six teams.
“I love the way we’re playing; it suits my game, and Uffy’s been great, too, getting me back to my fitness and playing good football.
“A massive win against the Wanderers is very important, but it doesn’t mean much unless we can back it up week by week. Coming into the home game against Brisbane with the Pride Celebration week is a great chance to get out there and show everyone what we can do and continue the form and run we are on,” Grant explained.
The A-Leagues will celebrate pride and the LGBTQI+ community this weekend across all matches, including Sydney FC vs Roar.
Grant praised the A-Leagues for this celebration, stressing that football is an inclusive sport for all.
“I think it’s super important and a great initiative from the leagues to bring [the Pride Celebration] in and make everyone feel welcome.
“From my point of view, I love it and think it’s a great thing to do going forward. Hopefully, everyone can come out, enjoy themselves, feel safe, and most of all have a good time,” he said.
Match Details: Pride Celebration
Sydney FC v Brisbane Roar
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 20
Sunday 10th March, 2024
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, NSW
Kick off: 5:00pm AEDT
Gates Open: 4:00pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Bold & 10Play
Join the Conversation: #SYDvBRI & #SydneyIsSkyBlue
Matchday Partner: Nova 969
