Tomi Juric netted a double, before Tom Rogic’s second-half match-winner in the 3-2 win over Saudi Arabia at Adelaide Oval on Thursday night.

There had been plenty of anxiety about Australia’s 2018 World Cup hopes in the lead-up to the game, with some arguing the current crop wasn’t near the qualities of previous generations.

PIC SPECIAL: Australia v Saudi Arabia

“We’re in a little bit of a rush with all of these guys,” Postecoglou said.

“We compare them to our best-ever players when they were in their best ever form.

“A lot of the guys out there are 22, 23, 24, played between 10 and 20 internationals.

“They’re just beginning to find their feet. I understand there’s an anxiety to get them to a certain space but it takes time.”

Postecoglou said the two-goal return of Luzern striker Juric, 25, was a prime example.

“We’ve been patient with him because we know his capabilities,” Postecoglou said.

“Tonight he scored two good goals and he also worked hard. It wasn’t just his goals.

“He’s one of a number that the best is ahead of them. You can’t rush these things. We’ve never put pressure on him.”

Rogic also earned praise from Postecoglou by responding to a disappointing first-half with the deciding goal.

“International football is a bit different and I think Tommy was disappointed with himself at half-time,” Postecoglou said.

“He was one of the ones trying to rush things a little bit. He’s a hell of a player.

“The best is ahead of him. To be fair, we’ve said on the bench a few times, it’s great watching him do it for Celtic but he owed us one. It’s nice for him to put one in for us.”

Postecoglou also hit back at those criticising the side for a lack of goals. Australia hadn’t scored from open play since October leading into the game.

“Everyone talks about the lack of the goals but we’ve scored in every game we’ve played and we can score in a number of ways, whether that’s open play or set-pieces.”

PIC SPECIAL: Australia v Saudi Arabia