Perth Glory FC have announced defender Dino Djulbic has signed a two-year contract extension, boosting Glory’s plans to remain a force in the Hyundai A-League.
The 32-year old returned to Glory for his second stint, during the off-season, on a one year deal but this week, signed on until the end of 2017.
Djulbic has appeared 17 times this season for the Hyundai A-League leaders and has also proved to be handy in attack. He scored a sensational header to open the scoring in the Round 6 match against the Asian champions, Western Sydney Wanderers and in Round 8, opened the scoring again with a cracking volley against Brisbane Roar.
During his previous stint at the club he made 27 appearances (between 2007 and 2009) and is set to play his 50th Hyundai A-League match in Glory colours this year.
The proud father of one, said he wants to be part of a strong Glory squad going forward, and has warned there’s plenty of improvement to come.
“You can see what the boys have done in eight months together, imagine what we can do over the next couple of years together. I hope we stay together and build towards the future.”
Djulbic said he’s enjoying his football under Kenny Lowe, who has been a big factor in his decision to commit to the club.
“I’ve known Kenny for a long time and he’s been a big influence on my football. He was a big part of the reason I decided to come back, him being a part of the club.”
“Deciding to stay for the next two years was made easier when I knew Kenny was going to be here for the long term,” he said.
The 32-year-old firmly believes that success is not too far away for Perth, and he wants to be a part of it.
“Silverware definitely comes into the equation. Obviously we’re top of the league at the moment and that’s one of the reasons I wanted to stay at Perth Glory. We’re getting pretty close to team success, I think.”
A devout family man, Djulbic said that staying in Perth was always his preference. His father, Esad, is battling Melanoma cancer, while at the same time his wife and young son love life in Perth.
“Obviously everything that’s happened with my dad, we want to be close – that was probably the biggest part, trying to build something that we can continue over the next couple of years,” Djulbic said.
And Djulbic is keen to entertain the fans who he said, are simply the best, in the A-League.
“I love hearing the fans cheer my name, I want to do my best for them and hopefully score a few more goals in front of The Shed and The Terrace. Hopefully no more red cards though.”
Djulbic joins stars Scott Jamieson and Nebojsa Marinkovic who’ve also committed to the club for the next two years.
Djulbic returns to the squad this weekend for the match against Melbourne City at AAMI Park on Sunday, after missing out last week’s clash against Adelaide due to suspension.
A win against City and Glory will move four points clear at the top of the table.
Glory will host current league champions Brisbane Roar at nib Stadium next Saturday, February 28.
Kick-off is at 6.30pm
Click here to get your tickets.
