In a huge boost for Melbourne City on the run-in to the Hyundai A-League Finals Series, the club confirmed on Saturday they have signed fringe Caltex Socceroos midfielder Oliver Bozanic.
Bozanic, who previously played in the Hyundai A-League with Melbourne Victory, has signed a deal for the remainder of the 2017/18 Season.
The 29-year-old joins the club as a free agent, having left his previous club in Japan Ventforet Kofu last year.
And he could make his debut as early as Saturday night’s blockbuster clash against Sydney FC at AAMI Park.
“This is an ambitious club in a familiar city for me, I’m really excited to be back here and can’t wait to play in Melbourne again,” Bozanic said.
“With the team having a break next week, I’m looking forward to settling in, meeting my new teammates and preparing for the final matches of the season, including a huge Melbourne Derby in March.”
After launching his career in the UK, the energetic and combative midfielder established himself in the Hyundai A-League with Central Coast Mariners.
With the Gosford-based side, Bozanic won the Premiers Plate and Championship during a successful period for the Mariners between 2010 and 2013.
A spell with FC Luzern in Switzerland followed, before a return to the Hyundai A-League with Victory, where he won the Westfield FFA Cup.
“We’ve brought in Oliver as we believe he will link well with our existing players, offers plenty of finals experience and brings a winning mentality,” City boss Warren Joyce said.
“He has won three trophies in club football in Australia and has tested himself in difficult leagues overseas, represented the country and has a desire to win more silverware, which provides us with an experienced and ambitious player.”
Bozanic has represented the Caltex Socceroos on seven occasions, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
He also played for Australia at Under-20 and Under-23 level.