Adelaide United recruit Robert Younis is flattered by those who compare him to John Aloisi and Mark Viduka but admits he’s got a long way to go before he’s in the same league as that duo.
Adelaide United recruit Robert Younis is flattered by those who compare him to John Aloisi and Mark Viduka but admits he’s got a long way to go before he’s in the same league as that duo.
The 22-year-old took part in the Reds’ internal trial at Hindmarsh Stadium on Wednesday and has already noticed a significant difference between the Hyundai A-League and NSW Premier League – a competition in which he scored 21 goals in 21 games.
“It’s going to be a huge step in the A-League. Yesterday in the match itself it’s a lot faster, it’s a lot sharper so I’ve got to be on my toes. I’ve got to work hard at training and fingers crossed it all comes together,” he said.
Younis’ rise through the football ranks has been a rapid one. His Golden Boot season with Apia Leichhardt also caught the attention of John Kosmina but Sydney FC only offered him a short-term contract.
The Reds put forward a two-year deal and the rest is history.
“Everything happened so quick and it just goes to show that if you are on your game and you are on your toes then things happen really, really quick,” he said.
Younis said he felt Adelaide could finish in the top two after a poor 2007/08 Hyundai A-League season.
“The lads here were a really nice bunch of guys and not only that the club itself is extremely professional,” he said.
“A lot of players are down to earth and modest so I think the team work and the morale around here will put us in the top flight.”
While the 186cm player has noticed a lift in football standard, he’s still confident he’ll be able continue his amazing goal run.
“I’ve scored consistently over the last few years, not to the extent of 21 goals in a season, but I have scored consistently over the last four or five years,” he said.
“Especially being around better players and in a club like this as well, the players that you’ve got around you obviously help the cause of you scoring.”
Younis is confident in his abilities but was embarrassed by those who compare his game to a famous Australian duo.
“I usually get Mark Viduka with playing style in holding the ball up but that was the first time I got John Aloisi; nevertheless I don’t mind,” he said.
“I’d love to play as half as good as him really.”
Adelaide supporters will get their first real chance to see Younis in action when the Reds take on Perth Glory at Hindmarsh Stadium on August 17.
