Perth Glory FC has confirmed it has agreed terms for first choice goalkeeper Danny Vukovic to join Japanese club Vegalta Sendai on a five-month loan deal.
Perth Glory FC has confirmed it has agreed terms for first choice goalkeeper Danny Vukovic to join Japanese club Vegalta Sendai on a five month loan deal.
Vukovic, Glory-s number one choice goalkeeper since his move to Perth in 2011, has been in outstanding form this season despite the team-s lowly position on the A-League table. The loan deal, which was concluded late today and remains subject to the player passing a medical, will see Vukovic depart for Japan tomorrow and return to Perth in time for pre-season training in August 2014.
Glory owner Tony Sage and CEO Jason Brewer both agreed to support the loan deal for Vukovic to join Vegalta Sendai with six games still remaining in this A-League season, in an effort to support him in his quest to achieve a spot in the Socceroos World Cup squad bound for Brazil.
“When we were approached by Graham Arnold and Vegalta Sendai about a loan deal for Danny we considered all possibilities but felt as a club it would be wrong not to help and support Danny in every way possible in achieving the ultimate in any players career by playing in a World Cup Finals,” Brewer said.
“Danny has been arguably one of the strongest performers and most consistent keepers in the A-League this season.
He now has the opportunity to play as many as 20 games in the J-League over the next few months to further strengthen his World Cup credentials.”
Vukovic will be Vegalta Sendai and Arnold-s second recent signing from the A-League with midfielder Michael McGlinchey joining on loan from Arnold-s former club the Central Coast Mariners.
“Firstly I would like to thank Tony, Jason and everyone at Perth Glory for allowing me to take up this offer in Japan,” Vukovic said.
“It allows me to continue playing at a high level over the coming months and leading up to the World Cup Finals in Brazil. Hopefully this will enhance my chances of selection in Ange Postecoglou-s final squad of 23 for the June tournament.”
“I would have loved to have finished the season with Glory but due to the transfer window closing in Japan, this isn’t possible. I hope our fans understand why I have made the decision to accept this offer and I want them to know I’m sincerely sorry that I won’t be here to see the season out.”
Jack Duncan is the likely replacement for Vukovic between the posts for the Glory for remainder of the season.
“I have full confidence that Jack (Duncan) will come into the side and do a good job for the team,” Vukovic said.
“He has worked hard all season and deserves his chance between the posts.”
Perth Glory’s next match is away to the Wellington Phoenix on Sunday.