North Queensland Fury FC marquee player Robbie Fowler has arrived! After weeks of anticipation the north’s football faithful were treated to their first glimpse of Fowler at Townsville airport on Sunday afternoon.
After weeks of anticipation the north’s football faithful were treated to their first glimpse of Fowler at Townsville airport on Sunday afternoon.
Despite being weary from his journey, Fowler delighted his fans by posing for photographs, signing jerseys, balls, scarfs and banners and chatting briefly with anyone who approached him.
Fowler admitted he didn’t expect the reception, but was appreciative of the support.
“I thought we’d come in low-key but it was fantastic,” Fowler said.
“I couldn’t have planned it better myself.”
Crowds and fanfare are the furtherest thing from the star striker’s focus in the next few months as he prepares for North Queensland FUry FC’s inaugural season in the Hyundai A-League 2009/10 season.
After a few days to recuperate, Fowler will be put to work by Fury coaching staff.
“I am here early to make sure I get plenty of hard work in, starting on April 1, before the start of the next season (August),” he said.
“The pre-season doesn’t start till May, but I want to be ready for that, too. I want to make sure I get everything right.”
Fowler said he was aware of the heat factor in Townsville, but said it held no fears for him and he did not think he would have problems handling it.
“I’ve played in all sorts of conditions during my career, not just the cold and the wet.”
Fowler’s presence in Townsville caught the attention of local and national media and while there were questions about why he’s come to North Queensland and what he expects from the Hyundai A-League, the 33-year- old said he just wants to play football.
“It’s a brand new team and a brand new squad that the manager’s got together so obviously I’m really excited to be a part of it,” he said.
“The fact that I can come here and play football in a lovely part of the world is a little bit special.
“But you obviously want to come here and do well for football reasons.”
