The Newcastle Jets have continued to build their team for next year’s Hyundai A-League season with the signing of goalkeeper Matthew Nash.
The Jets faced a goalkeeping dilemma just a month ago when they were deciding between Neil Young and Nash as the back-up for current custodian Ben Kennedy.
Initially the club decided upon Young offering him a one-year deal. But when the Western Australian-born glovesman returned home to take up a two-year deal with Perth Glory, the Jets wasted no time in re-signing Nash to a one-year contract.
“I am really happy to be given the opportunity to stay with the Jets,” Nash said this week.
“There is a great buzz around the club at the moment and I am thankful to be a part of it.”
“I have enjoyed my time with the Jets so far and moving to Newcastle will certainly help in my preparation for the season ahead.”
The 29-year-old was initially signed to the club as an injury replacement for Young and was thrust into the spotlight when he was chosen as goalkeeper for Newcastle’s high-profile exhibition match against David Beckham’s LA Galaxy.
Despite showing some sign of nerves and letting in a goal in the opening minutes Nash turned in a solid performance and backed it up with some equally strong showings for the Jets in the A-League.
“Matthew is a very experienced and talented goalkeeper,” Jets coach Branko Culina said.
“He has made the most of his opportunities with the Jets so far and we look forward to a strong season ahead from Matthew.”
