They’re not international marquees but these two could have a big impact on their new clubs.
As the Hyundai A-League season races ever closer, this week we-re looking at some of the key signings who could have a big impact for their clubs and on the closest title race yet. Today, two players expected to bring something extra to their new clubs’ attack.
6. Ben Halloran
Another Gold Coast United product, Halloran was one of the hottest properties in the Hyundai A-League following the Queensland club-s demise, reportedly turning down the chance to work with Ange Postecoglou at Melbourne Victory to sign on with Rado Vidosic’s Roar.
He enjoyed a sparkling season at United, as the club-s dominant National Youth League team took the step up to senior level.
Blessed with pace, grace on the ball and an eye for goal, Halloran enjoys taking on defenders and the potential of his combination with the likes of Mitch Nichols, Erik Paartalu and Thomas Broich is mouth-watering.
Brisbane need a back-up attacking dynamo for Broich, without whom the Roar looked a little flat last season.
Halloran still has some growing up to do but his ability to play either as striker or attacking midfielder should mean he will fit perfectly into Brisbane’s style and philosophy – this is the year we-ll all be watching to see if he can live up to the hype.
5. Mile Sterjovski
After a long career at home and abroad, former Socceroo Sterjovski probably couldn-t have found a club better suited to make the most of his experience than Central Coast Mariners.
Graham Arnold-s premiers have been left looking a little light, following a series of high-profile departures, culminating in captain Alex Wilkinson-s move to Korea.
Arnold-s still developing side will benefit hugely from Sterjovski-s know-how, and he should offer a fine counter-balance to excellent young striker Bernie Ibini-Isei, something the club has missed since Matt Simon left.
Sterjovski isn-t about to bag a pile of goals but Arnie knows that that; this is much more about his ability to hold up the ball and bring his teammates into the game. He might not be an internationally renowned marquee – but he will certainly be crucial to the Mariners- title defence this season.
