Western United have announced the departure of Isuzu UTE A-League Championship-winning club great Josh Risdon following the conclusion of their 2023-24 season.
Captain of Western United, Risdon leaves after five seasons and a Championship.
The Socceroos full-back was the club’s first-ever Australian signing ahead of their inaugural 2019-20 campaign and he went on to win the 2021-22 Championship while amassing 90 appearances – the fifth most in their history.
CAST YOUR VOTE HERE FOR DOLAN WARREN AWARDS
“I remember our first home game out at Georgies to our first home game here in Tarneit, and everything in between. Our first win over in Wellington, the Grand Final, being able to captain this club. All those things will mean a lot,” Risdon said.
“To be able to say I had a part in helping build what’s going on here makes me very proud, and is one I’ll be able to tell the grandkids.
“I want to say thank you to all my teammates who I’ve been with throughout these five years, everyone at the club from high up to the admin staff, and particularly to our football department.
“And lastly, to all the fans. You’ve been great for these five years, we’ve travelled to different places and you’ve always been there supporting us. I really appreciate the support you’ve
given me and to the players.
“I wish nothing but the best for this club in the future and I’ll be watching on from afar.”
YOUNG GUN’S BEAUTIFUL REACTION TO FIRST A-LEAGUES DEAL: ‘Best thing that’s happened in my life’
Risdon captained Western to their Championship triumph over Melbourne City in 2022, while he was named the club’s Player of the Year in 2022-23.
The popular 31-year-old scored one goal in 21 matches this Isuzu UTE A-League season.
“As a foundation player of the club, Josh has played a significant role in our journey both as a person and as a footballer, and we are extremely proud to have him as a leading figure in our club’s history,” said general manager of football Mal Impiombato.
“His commitment on the pitch has been matched by his personality off it, and I am sure he has had a positive impact on every single person that he has interacted with at our club.
“On behalf of our football department and our entire club, I want to sincerely thank Josh for his contributions to Western United. I wish him and his family all the very best in the future, and they will always be welcome at Western United.”
CAST YOUR VOTE HERE FOR DOLAN WARREN AWARDS
