Versatile Melbourne Heart recruit Patrick Gerhardt believes the fast and physical style of the Hyundai A-League will suit him.
Versatile Melbourne Heart newboy Patrick Gerhardt believes the fast and physical style of the Hyundai A-League will suit him.
The Swiss-born Liberian international signed a two-year deal with Heart in June after a season with Bosnia and Herzegovina’s league and cup champions Zeljeznicar.
Gerhardt, 27, said he expected his debut season in Australia to be challenging, but believes he is suited to the Hyundai A-League.
“It’s a fast game here. It’s a lot of power, a lot of running, a lot of two-fights. Fast, fast game. I think it will be a tough league,” he said.
“When you compare to Europe, you can compare like the Premier League, a lot of running, a lot of tackles.
“Maybe not like Spain, but it’s a fast game and physical.
“I’m not the best technically so I guess it’s more my game.”
Gerhardt was used in several positions during his time in Bosnia and Herzegovina and is ready to be moved around again in Australia.
While he was signed as a defensive midfielder, Gerhardt said he would be used as a replacement for Brendan Hamill, who moved to K-League side Seongnam in July.
“I think I’ll play central defender. I’m taking his (Hamill’s) spot because for me it’s no problem to play central defender or No.6,” he said.
“For me it doesn’t matter. Some positions I can do maybe more, but I can play it.
“It’s not like I’m lost in that position. For me, it’s no problem, it’s not a big deal to play different positions.”
Gerhardt has a history of success, having collected the domestic league and cup double last season and the Canadian Soccer League championship with Brantford Galaxy the campaign prior.
He has settled well in Melbourne and took time to praise 36-year-old rookie coach John Aloisi.
“He’s a young, good coach from what I’ve seen so far. He’s really good. I cannot complain,” Gerhardt said.
“His trainings change a lot. It’s not everything the same. (It’s) really match-focused.
“The speed and everything is like in the game. He doesn’t do too much training of what we actually don’t need. He’s very good.”
Gerhardt said he had not yet had the opportunity to see Melbourne closely, opting to focus on pre-season training ahead of the season kick-off on October 5.
