John Aloisi has strengthened his defence for the upcoming A-League season, signing former Ajax defender Rob Wielaert.
Wieleart (right) faces Arsenal’s Theo Walcott while captaining FC Twente in European Champions League qualifying
John Aloisi has strengthened his defence for the upcoming A-League season, signing former Ajax defender Rob Wielaert.
Wielaert joins Aloisi’s growing list of off-season recruits, which includes Harry Kewell, Massimo Murdocca and Iain Ramsay.
Wielaert, 34, has an exceptional resume, with over 350 matches of elite experience with three of the biggest clubs in Holland, PSV, Ajax and FC Twente, in the Eredivise – Holland-s premier division.
The defender has also experienced European Champions League football (where he captained FC Twente), the Europa League and has two international caps for Holland-s B team.
Wielaert, who made his professional debut with PSV, started 22 matches for Roda JC last season.
Aloisi travelled to watch Wielaert play in the Netherlands in May and was hugely impressed by the Dutchman.
“Wielaert has superb pedigree and his experience at the top level is very impressive,” Aloisi said.
“He is a smart footballer and will be an excellent organiser of the team from the back.”
Wieleart said he was looking forward to the challenge of the Hyundai A-League.
“I have played all of my career in the Netherlands and now it is an exciting time to play abroad,” Wielaert said.
“So when Melbourne Heart contacted me, I was enthusiastic immediately.”
Wielaert will fill the Club-s third available visa spot.
