The Aston Villa loanee is back on international duty with Australia, having been recalled to the Socceroos squad for the first time since May. Gauci has been reflecting on his experience with the Imps, who are adjusting to life in the second tier following last season’s promotion.
Having faced City in League One before joining on loan, the 25-year-old was already familiar with the club and the progress it had made.
“It’s been good. Obviously, a club that had great success last season. I came up against them in League One, and so now making the step up with them to the Championship, it’s been a tough start.
“It started quite well. The last few weeks have been a bit of a mixed bag, but I’m really enjoying the environment and the group that we’ve got there, and it’s going to be a good year.”
Gauci also acknowledged the significance of Lincoln’s return to the Championship after more than six decades outside the second tier. It is a major moment in the club’s history, and one he feels the supporters have embraced despite the challenges that come with competing at a higher level.
“Yeah, yeah, 60-odd years, I think. So, a club with a proud history and a great set of fans that, yeah, I think even the real showing of that was the West Ham game.
“I mean, it was a game that certainly didn’t go our way, but still seeing in the 90th minute, you know, supporting the team. So a very proud group of supporters. So it’s really big for the club.”
The international break also offers Gauci an opportunity to reconnect with his Australian teammates, several of whom are competing in the Championship this season. He believes the growing Australian presence in English football is beneficial both personally and for the national team.
“It’s fantastic. Being able to come up against Aussies and see Aussies every couple of weeks is quite nice and obviously it’s great for the Socceroos also.”
For Gauci, the immediate focus is on representing his country, but his comments suggest he remains enthusiastic about what Lincoln can achieve this season, even if he is due to play nothing more than a bit part role in the league.
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