Perth Glory have confirmed that Caltex Socceroo Josh Risdon has rejected an offer to stay at the club, with the defender to leave at the end of the season.
The 24-year old was re-signed by the club last year on a one-year deal and over the past several weeks, the club had been negotiating with the player and his management team, to renew his contract for another two seasons.
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Club CEO Peter Filopoulos said contract negotiations with the 24-year old Bunbury born Socceroo and his management, ceased today, after Risdon informed the club of his intentions.
“Despite presenting a very strong offer to Josh and his management, we’ve been advised today that he won’t be renewing his contract for season 2017/18 and beyond,” Filopoulos said.
“We understand Josh is keen to explore life outside of Western Australia, and while we respect his decision, we are extremely disappointed he won’t be wearing the purple kit after season 16/17.”
Risdon said it was a difficult decision to leave the club but admitted it was time for a new challenge.
“This has not been an easy decision. I feel the time is right for me to explore a new adventure and grow in a different environment and move out of my comfort zone in Western Australia,” he said.
“For the past seven years I have bled purple and I owe a lot to Perth Glory and my coaches. It’s here where I have been fortunate to lead the team on the park and as a result earn a berth in the Socceroos.
“I’m a WA boy through and through and hopefully I’ll be back one day to play in front of my family and friends. I’d like to thank the fans who’ve embraced me along the way and I’ll always be grateful for their support.
“In the meantime I’m looking forward to helping the team with its quest for another Hyundai A-League finals campaign and hopefully a third championship.”
Risdon began his professional career with Perth Glory FC in 2010 at the young age of 18 where he has now amassed 127 matches, making him the club’s most capped player in Hyundai A-League history.
