Patrick Kisnorbo, lifelong Carlton supporter, captain of English club Leicester and Socceroos defender, shortly embarks on the trip of a lifetime, firstly to Singapore for a week-long training camp, and then on to the Asia Cup.

The ramifications of a successful tournament are incalculable. As Kisnorbo says: “This is a chance for the Socceroos to be a part of history and win our first silverware . . . the only people who can beat us are ourselves”.

Kisnorbo, 26, is the son of a Mauritian-born father Patrick Senior, who died 14 years ago, while his mother, Susanna, was born in the North-eastern Italian city of Trieste. Patrick Senior and Susanna actually met in a Melbourne nightclub.

The former South Melbourne Hellas player, who later represented Scottish League outfit Hearts, has assured that if the Socceroos bring home the bacon, “I’ll wear my Carlton guernsey onto the pitch”.

Kisnorbo was a guest at Carlton training during the week and not only participated in the teams warm up but he also presented Anthony Koutoufides with his very own official Socceroos jersey, of course bearing the number 43 and branded KOUTA across the back.

Carltonfc.com.au caught up with Patrick while at MC Labour Park.

Why did you first support Carlton? Family or fate?

To be honest, my Mum’s sister, Aunty Janet bought me a Carlton guernsey when I was a 12-month-old infant. She basically converted me into a Blueboy and I wore the no.25 of Alex Jesaulenko on my back. I need a new guernsey now.

I grew up supporting the Blues and used to go to the games. I was privileged to go to the 1995 Grand Final against Geelong which, co-incidentally, was the last game I actually attended.

Favourite game?

The ’95 Grand Final was obviously my favourite. I remember the half-time fight and Greg Williams and “Kouta” running amok. I was there with my Uncle Fabio, who happened to be an Essendon supporter.

Favourite Carlton player?

I love “Kouta”, he’s got that something special. In the Premier League they look to the captain to lift the team and “Kouta” is that type of man.

Did you ever play the game?

I used to play footy for my school, St Bernard’s in Essendon. I was a rover because I was pretty quick back then, but soccer was always No1.

Do you know the words to the Carlton theme song?

I do know the words, but I’m a bit rusty.

Favourite ground – MCG or The Dome?

It’s got to be MCG because of the history.

Away from the game, can you keep tabs on the fortunes of the mighty Blues?

In England we have Sky Sports, which broadcasts an AFL game on Euro Channel once a week. The last one I saw was Carlton beating Essendon in the biggest comeback in the club’s history.

Crystal ball Carlton prediction?

Hopefully in 12 months time they’ll be pushing for the top eight. Obviously they’re in the rebuilding stage and hopefully they can mount a challenge then.