Central Coast Mariners have recruited former scholarship player Samuel Silvera, who returns to the club on a three-season contract after a stint at Portuguese club Paços de Ferreira.
Silvera departed the Mariners in September, 2020 with 21 Isuzu UTE A-League appearances to his name, scoring a maiden ALM goal against Perth Glory in November, 2019.
His move to Paços was followed by loan spells at Liga Pro side Casa Pia and Sanjoanense, before a third loan spell back in the ALM at Newcastle Jets in 2021-22.
Under Jets boss Arthur Papas, Silvera made 19 appearances throughout the most recent ALM season, scoring one goal against Western Sydney.
After securing the services of Silvera, Mariners head coach Nick Montgomery said he was excited to work with the versatile forward as the 21-year-old continues his development at the club over the next three seasons.
“Sam is a very talented attacker who can play multiple positions across the front third and can contribute by creating and scoring goals,” Montgomery told club media.
“His time in Portugal has matured him as a player and last season, he showed what he can do at this level with limited game time.
“Now he is back where he belongs, I think he has unfinished business and we are delighted to have attained his transfer from Paços, as we feel he can be a real asset for us moving forward.”
Silvera added his delight at returning home to the club, expressing his eagerness to see where he can take his game under Montgomery’s guidance.
“I am really happy to be back home for the next three seasons and I am looking forward to playing under Monty and Serg (assistant coach Sergio Raimundo). I know they can help take my game to the next level and seeing what they have done with young players at the club, I know this is the right move for me.”
“I had a lot of good memories from my time here and I am grateful to the Mariners for giving me my professional debut” Silvera added.
“The club has built strong foundations over the last couple of seasons and I am ready to excite the fans once more.”
