Milos Trifunovic has paid tribute to the impact Morten Nordstrand and Steven Ugarkovic had on Newcastle Jets after their 2-1 win over Melbourne City on Sunday.
Trifunovic scored both of the Jets’ goals on Sunday but tried to share the limelight with Newcastle’s two signings from the January transfer window on Monday.
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Ugarkovic was given his first start against City and was tidy in central midfield, while Nordstrand came off the bench to tee up Trifunovic’s second goal with a well-weighted cross.
“Yeah, both players – Steven Ugarkovic and [Morten] Nordstrand – they showed why they came here,” Trifunovic told reporters via team-mate and translator Mateo Poljak.
“They’re both great players and in particular Nordstrand, he showed why he played Champions League [with FC Copenhagen and FC Nordsjaelland].
“He’s going to be a great signing for us – very important player.”
Sunday’s win was only the Jets’ second in 14 matches but Trifunovic argued Scott Miller’s side could be set for a late-season surge with Nordstrand having arrived and playmaker Leonardo seemingly over his injuries.
“With Leonardo getting fitter and Nordstrand coming in, I think we are more dangerous than before, and it’s going to be vital for us for this last part of the season,” the Serbian centre-forward said.
Trifunovic’s brace saw him reach eight goals for the season and four in as many games.
A tactical tweak with Leonardo playing close to 31-year-old has made a big difference.
“Yeah, definitely, it’s easier when someone’s closer to me,” Trifunovic said.
“This new system works well for us and sometimes I found myself in between three or four defenders at least. Like this, it’s much easier.”
Newcastle’s next game is away to Brisbane Roar on Friday night.
