Around the grounds: Ibini stays a Jet; Diamanti claims award

Carl Robinson has pulled off a major coup for Newcastle Jets ahead of the Hyundai A-League 2020/21 Season by securing Bernie Ibini on a season-long loan deal.

Ibini has been a revelation for the Hunter club since joining on a short-term contract in February.

The former Central Coast and Sydney FC attacker played six games, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

And his overall play was particularly impressive, playing a vital role as the Jets ended the 2019/20 regular season as one of the form sides of the competition.

“Scoring my first goal for Newcastle on Thursday night was a great feeling and getting the chance to spend another season here is, too,” Ibini said on the Jets’ website.

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around the grounds

“I’m enjoying working under Carl again, and I’m confident he can continue to bring out the best in me.

“I’ve really felt the love from the fans since I joined the Jets and I’m looking forward to repaying it next season.”

Robinson, who has also worked with Ibini in the MLS with Vancouver Whitecaps, added: “He’s a good character to have in the locker room and he’s a great player.

“He’s a very versatile player and he can play in multiple positions, which allows us more flexibility.

“We’re happy to have him locked in for next season and I’m excited for what he’ll continue to bring to the team.”

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Diamanti voted competition’s best

Western United FC skipper Alessandro Diamanti has been recognised as the best player of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 Season by host broadcaster Fox Sports.

The former Italian international took out the annual Alex Tobin Award, as voted by Fox Sports’ experts for his exceptional performances during the campaign.

Diamanti received 25 points from 24 games this season, one point ahead of joint-runners ups Diego Castro (Perth Glory) and Riley McGree (Adelaide United).

“I think I’m running out of words to describe Alino, but I reiterate, as does this achievement, how valuable and important he is to our team and to our club,” United boss Mark Rudan said.

“His leadership, teamwork and effort should be aspired to by all footballers.”

Diamanti was named man-of-the-match on seven occasions this season, and scored seven goals and had seven assists during the regular season.

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Alessandro Diamanti

Adelaide United’s awards go digital

Adelaide United have confirmed the club’s annual awards night will be held in a unique digital setting due to the ongoing public restrictions around COVID-19.

The winners will be revealed via the Adelaide United social media channels and will be held on Thursday, August 27.

Each award will be posted on the Reds’ website once all Award winners have been announced.

Awards will be presented for Goal of the Year – as voted by the fans – as well as the following categories:

Youth Player of the Year, Westfield W-League Rising Star, Hyundai A-League Rising Star, Westfield W-League Golden Boot, Hyundai A-League Golden Boot, RAA Members’ Player of the Year, Westfield W-League Players’ Player, Hyundai A-League Players’ Player, Remo Paris Club Person of the Year, Westfield W-League Player of the Year, Hyundai A-League Aurelio Vidmar Club Champion Award.

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