Having been an ever-present in the Brisbane club’s inaugural A-League campaign, the 22-year-old saw his second year shattered by injury.

The former Australian U20 international was going well until a training session ended in painful fashion.

Tests showed the midfielder had ruptured a ligament in his foot and he was immediately encased in plaster.

He said: “It was about the worst thing I could have done really. I couldn’t do anything for a month and it was very, very frustrating sitting there with the plaster on.

“It was all the more annoying because things had been going well and I was happy with my form.

“Then there was the fact that I was out of contract at the end of the season. It really was the worst time.”

After a long road back to fitness, Murdocca was able to pull on his boots again to feature in the final couple of matches, with Roar pipped to a finals spot by the narrowest of margins by Sydney FC.

Still, he was clearly viewed as part of coach Frank Farina’s future plans as a two-year deal was offered and duly accepted.

He said: “It was great to get the two years. Not too many players are on long deals in this league but then I think that means that every match, every performance matters."

"Players are always hungry to impress and I don’t think that’s a bad thing. No-one can just get into the comfort zone.”

Murdocca has been happy with his pre-season form and is now looking forward to the next challenge, the weekend Pre-Season Cup clash with Central Coast Mariners.

He said: “The club showed faith in me with the contract so, yes, I guess you could say it’s about repaying that faith. But I think I also owe it myself to have a good season.

“I can honestly say I’ve never felt fitter and my body fat count has never been lower. I’m feeling really good and looking forward to the games.”

Murdocca’s committed style has won him plenty of friends but he sees another member of the Roar engine room picking up the plaudits as season three unfolds.
Danny Tiatto’s arrival at Suncorp Stadium has delighted Murdocca and he is already enjoying working with him.

He said: “What can you say? The guy is just class, simple as that. He’s quick, sharp and all the decisions he makes out there are spot on. He’s got great experience and I’ve the utmost respect for him.”

Murdocca, Tiatto and company take on the Central Coast Mariners at Wade Park, Orange on July 21 (kick off 3pm).