Central Coast’s defensive stocks have received a boost with Dutchman Patrick Zwaanswijk joining the Mariners from NAC Breda.
The 35-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the A-League club, having played 11 seasons in the Dutch top flight, as well as two years in the J-League with Oita Trinita.
The 191cm centre back can’t wait to get to Australia and has already done his homework on where he would like to live.
“I know a lot about Terrigal, North Avoca, Avoca Beach, Wamberal, Gosford. I’m very well informed by Google, I even know which way to drive to Bluetongue Stadium as well,” Zwaanswijk said.
“We are looking for a nice house, we want to get in as soon as possible, that way we can get to know the Australian people better and not stay in a hotel, it’s always difficult to do that.”
New Mariners coach Graham Arnold was delighted to have secured the Dutchman’s services and believes his experience will be a major asset for the team.
“Patrick is held is very high regard not only at NAC Breda but across the entire Eredivisie and he’s going to be a huge addition to the squad, both in size and in what he will bring to the table,” said Arnold.
“You can’t buy the experience that Patrick has, and he has been playing regularly at a very high level, so I’m sure he will adapt to the A-League very well.”
“His workrate and his attitude are second to none, he’s been a real fan favourite wherever he has been in the past, and I’m sure that will be no different here.”
Meanwhile, the Mariners continued their strong pre-season form with a 4-1 win over Belconnen United in the ACT on Wednesday night.
Matt Simon, Brad Porter and Adam Kwasnik all scored in a whirlwind three minutes in the first half before John Hutchinson rounded off the scoring late in the second half.
“It was a slick performance and I thought our football in patches was again very good,” Arnold said.
