A love affair that started as a fan in ‘The Shed’ more than 20 years ago played a key role in Andy Keogh’s decision to return to Perth Glory.
The all-action striker is back for a third stint with the club after spending the last 18 months playing in Saudi Arabia and India.
And the 34-year-old is delighted to be back in the west, where he plans to finish his illustrious career.
“I never, ever wanted to play for another A-League team,” Keogh said on Glory’s official website.
“I watched Glory in 1998/99 from The Shed with my uncle and I always said that I’d play for them when I came to live in Australia.
“A lot of people have come and said that they’re glad to see me back and it’s nice to be appreciated.
“Obviously I didn’t leave on my own terms and it’s great to have the chance to finish my career here at Perth and then transition into my next stage, whatever that may be.”
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Keogh’s arrival adds further firepower to a Glory frontline that already boasts the likes of Bruno Fornaroli, Diego Castro and Chris Ikonomidis.
The former Leeds and Wolves striker is Glory’s all-time leading scorer, with 60 goals from 122 appearances.
He also has a personal milestone looming large on the horizon, with Keogh to gain his Australian citizenship.
“Perth is my new home,” he said.
“I visited many times when I was a child and I’ve got lots of extended family here who are Aussies that were born here.
“My kids were born here as well and it means a lot to me.
“To finally become a citizen is a proud moment for me and my family and I’m proud to be part of such a fantastic country with such a good community spirit about it.”
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Keogh and the Glory squad have completed two full weeks of pre-season training under new boss – and former Glory teammate – Richard Garcia.
“It’s a good atmosphere, a good vibe. The sessions have been good,” Keogh said.
“They’ve been fitness-based; basically getting everyone’s legs going again and making sure that there are no injuries and that we’re all strong before the tough stuff comes along.
“For me personally, training has been slow and steady.
“I’ve not done a lot recently as there’s only so much you can do outside of football, so I’ve just taken it steadily, making sure that all the parts of my body are getting stronger and I’m looking forward to progressing nicely in the next few weeks and months.”
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