Newcastle Jets have completed the signing of Serbian attacking midfielder Enver Alivodić through to the end of season ten.
Alivodić will be available for selection by Phil Stubbins for Saturday’s F3 Derby against Central Coast Mariners at Hunter Stadium.
Jets officials worked through the night to help accelerate the process of attaining Alivodić’s International Transfer Clearance (ITC) in order for him to be available for tomorrow’s match.
Newcastle boss Stubbins said having the 30-year-old available for the important clash against the Phil Moss’s Mariners was a boost for the club.
“Enver has been with us a week now and he’s looking sharper every day,” Stubbins said.
“He’s got the jet-lag out of his body now and given we’re minus Andrew Hoole for tomorrow’s match, there’s every chance we’ll call on him in some capacity to participate in the game.”
“He’s got great ability in wide attacking areas with assists and goals in his locker, so he’s someone that we’re delighted to now have over the line.”
“I have to give a big pat on the back to Nick Deluca (Newcastle Jets Football Operations Manager) for his diligent efforts to expedite Enver’s ITC from Serbia,” he said.
Alivodić has spent the majority of his professional career in the Serbian Superliga, though his move to the Jets is not his first foray abroad to ply his trade. Between 2011 and 2012 Alivodic featured for Cypriot outfit Enosis Neon Paralimni FC.
Alivodić arrives at the Jets from 2014 Serbian Cup winners FK Vojvodina, with whom he played in the UEFA Europa League.
“I am glad to have finally received my clearance,” Alivodić said. “I have played in many derby matches in Serbia for my old clubs, including against Partizan Belgrade and Red Star Belgrade, so I would be very happy to make my debut in an Australian derby.”
“I have been here a week now and I feel sharp,” he said.
Alivodić played his last match in a friendly for Vojvodina in Turkey in January.
