Chris Coyne has joined brother Jamie at Perth Glory on a three-year contract after parting ways with League One outfit Colchester United.
Coyne’s signature has completed a memorable off-season of signings for Perth manager David Mitchell, who has also recruited current Socceroos Mile Sterjovski and Jacob Burns to join the club.
The Glory put an offer to Coyne after the U’s released him from his contract on Thursday night and agreed to a mutually parting of ways.
Coyne is rapt to be returning to his home town and playing alongside his brother.
“(It) was an opportunity that I didn’t want to pass up,” Coyne said.
“I’m very happy to be coming home and I think Perth have been able to put together a really strong squad.”
Coyne said he sought approval from national coach Pim Verbeek before completing the move back to Australia.
“He was happy for me to come back,” said Coyne.
“He will definitely have more opportunity to see me playing week in and week out which helped me make the decision.”
“I feel as though I’m coming back while I still have plenty of good football to play and can offer Perth Glory my best.”
Mitchell believes the acquisition of Coyne will further bolster the Glory’s squad.
“We’ve been able to strengthen all areas across the pitch and have depth in every position,” Mitchell said.
“Chris is a wonderful player and brings added experience and toughness to our defence. I’m delighted he has decided to join our club.”
Coyne earlier told Colchester United’s website: “Unfortunately, after 18 months here, it’s time to move on.”
“It was made clear that I wasn’t going to play week in, week out and I felt that I had to look at that and address it.”
“Also, there isn’t much of a chance for the Australian manager to watch League One football but in Australia, I’m guaranteed to play 27 games in front of him.”
Coyne paid tribute to the club’s fans and the team where he has spent two years since joining from Luton.
Perth owner Tony Sage added: “Chris has seen what we’ve set in motion here and the high standard of players we’ve brought together at the club.”
“We are delighted to add another player with the experience and skill that Chris possesses.”
“Chris played a huge part in Australia’s successful World Cup qualifying campaign and will be a vital component in our squad, all of whom are hungry and determined to propel Perth back to the top of the Australian game.”
