The 24-year-old has become one of coach Ange Postecoglou’s key players in recent times.

Sainsbury has been a constant in central defence while the likes of Bailey Wright and Mark Milligan have been used, with the returning Matt Spiranovic overlooked in Thursday’s 2-0 win over Iraq.

There’s also been a number of full-backs trialed including Brad Smith, Alex Gersbach, Milos Degenek, Jason Geria, Josh Risdon and Ryan McGowan.

“Obviously early days in the Socceroos you’re a bit tentative,” Sainsbury said.

“You don’t want to voice your opinion on the pitch. You become more comfortable with the boys. You get to know their personalities.

“You can take that onto the pitch as well and become more of a leader. I think I’ve stepped into that role.

“Obviously having so many changes to the backline, it shows the depth in the squad we’ve got now.

“To be playing regularly in that team is a big honour, but at the same time it’s a massive responsibility to marshal everyone around you and do your job well.”

Perth-born Sainsbury, who scored his maiden Socceroos goal against Wednesday morning’s opponents UAE, added he was delighted to keep a clean sheet against Iraq.

“We should’ve scored a few more goals. They created one or two half-chances from our mistakes,” he said.

“At the end of the day as a defender all you want is a clean sheet so it’s a good positive result.”

Meanwhile, Australia midfielder Aaron Mooy was confident the Socceroos could overcome the oppressive conditions in Abu Dhabi against UAE.

“We’re expecting a very tough game. The conditions are very tough,” Mooy said.

“It’s something we’re going to have to deal with and try and block out and concentrate on what we’re doing.

“I’m sure if we stick to the game plan we can get the job done.”

Australia takes on UAE from 1.30am AEST on Wednesday morning.