Sydney FC is poised to secure the services of Swiss defender Stephan Keller, completing its playing roster for the 2009/10 Hyundai A-League season.
The Sky Blues expect the 30-year-old to put pen to paper by the end of the week after impressing in Sunday’s trial against the Newcastle Jets.
Keller is entering his 11th season as a professional having most recently applied his trade in the Dutch First Division with De Graafschap.
“Maybe today we hope, we believe and touch wood that Stephan signs the contract,” Sydney FC coach Vitezslav Lavicka said on Thursday.
Asked what the well-credentialed central defender will add to his squad, the Czech coach labelled Keller a proven performer who he expects will have a big impact in the Hyundai A-League.
“Stephan Keller is an experienced player, a tough player,” Lavicka enthused.
“We were looking for more experience, we have several good young players but young players (who are) still not consistent performers.”
“We believe that Stephan brings to Sydney FC the consistent experience and strong play in defence.”
Veteran Sydney defender Simon Colosimo endorsed Keller’s arrival after standing alongside him against in the 1-1 draw with the Jets at the SFS on Sunday.
“It looks like he’s joining (the club) and I hope he does,” Colosimo said.
“He’s got a wealth of experience and that’s another piece of the puzzle.”
Meanwhile Colosimo, who spent the bulk of last year’s campaign on the sidelines through injury, says things are looking up in the harbour city after a solid pre-season campaign.
“We’ve got boys who are much fitter and stronger than they were last season and we’ve got boys that are two seasons old if you want to call them in the A-League,” he said.
“There’s a few boys with half a dozen games under their belt which isn’t many games but it’s still a few games that they’ve had a taste of it.”
“And there’s a good hunger amongst every single player, no one’s taking anything for granted.”
The Sky Blues will open their campaign against Hyundai A-League newcomers North Queensland Fury in Townsville on August 8.
