City sign French star

Melbourne City FC have secured lively winger Harry Novillo on a permanent two-year deal ahead of the Hyundai A-League 2015/16 campaign.

Initially signed on a short-term contract until the end of the 2014/15 season, Novillo joined City in March this year as an injury replacement for Damien Duff, making 10 appearances for John van’t Schip’s side.

The 23-year-old quickly established himself in Melbourne City FC’s starting line-up, earning eight starts and netting three times in his 10 matches.

An athletic, quick and dynamic winger, Novillo impressed fans of the A-League with a handful of influential performances, his appetite for goal and powerful finishing.

With a strong physique and a willingness to shoot, the former French academy product netted a memorable goal from distance against Western Sydney Wanderers, while his last goal came in the 2-0 Elimination Final win over Wellington Phoenix.

Head Coach van’t Schip said Novillo, originally a product of the youth system at French Ligue 1 side Lyon, had impressed since joining the club.

“Harry was an important player and contributor for us in the final three months of the season and illustrated his value to the team during that period,” van’t Schip said.

“Despite joining the team in March, Harry was able quickly adapt to a new environment and make a positive contribution and he is an exciting player.

“With Harry here from the start of the pre-season, we are confident that he will be able to give even more to the team next season.”

Novillo commenced pre-season training with his teammates at the City Football Academy, Melbourne, on Monday.

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