Central Coast Mariners have added some attacking talent to their ranks with ex-Brisbane Roar forward Peter Skapetis joining until the end of the Hyundai A-League 2017/18 Season.
Skapetis was released by the Roar earlier on Thursday having played just 14 games for John Aloisi’s side.
While he didn’t find the net in any of Brisbane’s Hyundai A-League matches, the 23-year-old did score in the club’s Westfield FFA Cup loss to Melbourne Victory.
Melbourne-born Skapetis ventured to England as a 16-year-old and ultimately signed with English Premier League Outfit Stoke City after a stint in West London with Queens Park Rangers, spending six years in the UK.
“I’m really excited to start training with my new team and hit the ground running,” Skapetis said.
“Everything happened very quickly and I’m really happy to be here and looking forward to meeting all the boys.
“The type of football Paul Okon has the Mariners playing was a big factor for me – I’ve always respected him.
“I know a few of the players personally who are all great guys and great players so it just seemed like the perfect fit, so when the opportunity presented itself I wanted to take it.
“I want to put the ball in the back of the net, play finals football and offer everything I can to get the team higher up the ladder.”
Skapetis has also represented Australia at under-20 and under-23s level where he bagged 11 goals in eight appearances.
And he could make his Mariners debut as early as this weekend, with the youngster available for selection for the clash with Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium on Friday night.
“I’m really grateful for this opportunity, I’m ready to go if called upon this Saturday,” he said.
“It’s a tough opposition, the best in the league currently but if you can’t get excited about a game like that then you don’t love the sport. I’m looking forward to it.”
Mariners boss Paul Okon added: “Peter is fit and ready to go.
“He will add to our depth in the front third as he can play anywhere in attack.
“With plenty of football still to be played we’re confident that Peter can contribute to helping us win football games.”
