Perth Glory coach Alex Epakis says former Matildas star Lisa De Vanna has a glint in her eye and is back to being a larrikin ahead of the start of the A-League Women season.
De Vanna rocked Australian soccer last month when she aired allegations of historical sexual harassment, abuse and bullying she suffered during her glittering international career.
The 37-year-old was also left disheartened at missing out on a spot at the Olympics, and she considered walking away from soccer.
But De Vanna has rediscovered her love for the sport since rejoining the Glory last month, and Epakis is expecting big things from the star striker this season.
“In our professional sport you go through so many emotions all the time and unfortunately Lisa was in a bit of a rut,” Epakis said.
“We’re just really grateful she felt this was a great environment for her to step foot in and just feel more focused on football and not worried about the other issues outside of that.
“She’s a joker, she’s pulling jokes on the players and the staff all the time. She’s got a nice little glint about her eye and I think we’re going to see a really rejuvenated Lisa De Vanna.”
Epakis said De Vanna was in fantastic shape, but was tight lipped about whether he would hand the veteran a starting berth in Saturday night’s clash with Brisbane in Perth.
“She does so well to maintain her level,” Epakis said.
“She’s extremely professional with her preparation. There’s no issues there.
“She’s a fantastic addition. We’re very privileged to have her this season and she brings a lot of experience on and off the field.”
Glory were winless last season but they have enjoyed a much smoother lead-in this time around and they harbour hopes of making the finals.
American import Cyera Hintzen is still in quarantine and will miss Saturday’s game while versatile forward Demi Koulizakis is still sidelined by a knee injury.
