New Zealand defender Michael Boxall has signed a two-year deal with Wellington Phoenix.
New Zealand defender Michael Boxall has signed a two-year deal with Wellington Phoenix.
The Hyundai A-League club confirmed they were in talks with the 23-year-old centre-back earlier this month after he was released from MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps.
Boxall, who has played seven times for the All Whites since making his debut against China last year, has been signed as cover for central defensive pairing Andrew Durante and Ben Sigmund but could also play in the right-back position.
“Michael is a big, strong, quick defender who has impressed me when I’ve had him in All Whites squads,” said Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert, also the coach of New Zealand.
“He has been playing in a good league and I’m confident he will be quickly up to speed with the A-League.”
The strapping 188cm defender, who was born in Auckland, is hoping to kick-start his career in Wellington after a difficult few months at the Whitecaps.
Boxall made 19 appearances for the MLS outfit in his first season in 2011 but slipped down the pecking order under coach Martin Rennie this season and had been playing in the MLS reserve grade.
“Vancouver is a great spot to live but the football has been a bit disappointing in the last few months,” Boxall said.
“I was out of favour with the coach and while I tried to do the right things it didn’t make any difference.
“When it gets like that it is time to move on and fortunately the Phoenix were keen to have me.
“I’ve heard what a close-knit squad the club has and I already know a handful of the lads through the All Whites so I’m sure I will quickly settle down there.
“New Zealand has come a long way on the professional football front thanks to the Phoenix and I’m grateful to get the chance to play for Ricki and the club.”
