Sainsbury leads tributes to departing Ange

Socceroos defender Trent Sainsbury has led a wave of tributes to Ange Postecoglou after the mentor stepped down as national coach.

Postecoglou resigned Wednesday morning after leading Australia to its fourth successive World Cup.

"Just want to say thanks to Ange for everything he has done for football in Australia and me personally," Sainsbury tweeted.

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Just want to say thanks to Ange for everything he has done for football in Australia and me personally. He gave me my shot with the national team and I can never forget that. The belief and confidence he’s instilled in this team that will keep us on the path to great things. 🇦🇺 pic.twitter.com/p99kzKXuRL
— Trent Sainsbury (@Tsainsbury92) November 21, 2017

"He gave me my shot with the national team and I can never forget that.

"The belief and confidence he's instilled in this team that will keep us on the path to great things."

Rising star Brad Smith also paid tribute.

Thanks to Ange for giving me my opportunity to do the thing I've always wanted to do and represent my country, also the way he has changed the way people look at Australians playing football. I wish him all the best in the next chapter in his life 🇦🇺🇦🇺 pic.twitter.com/PrLtTgjYRv
— brad smith (@bradsmith_94) November 21, 2017

"To play in a World Cup and to win the Asian cup on home soil is something I will cherish and never forget! You always believed in us," Europe-based Davison said on Twitter.

Former Socceroo Mile Sterjovski praised Postecoglou for his undeniable influence helping raise the profile of the game in Australia.

A lot of respect for everything Ange Postecoglou did for football in Australia. Changed the mindset of players and instilled belief that we can match it with anyone in the World.
All the best for the future #thankyouAnge
— Mile Sterjovski (@MSterjovski) November 21, 2017