The Wellington Phoenix have strengthened their attack early in the Isuzu UTE A-League transfer window, signing Norwegian midfielder Sander Kartum on loan from Heart of Midlothian FC for the remainder of the season.
The 30-year-old replaces Hideki Ishige, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in round three. Kartum brings top-flight European experience and will add qualities head coach Giancarlo Italiano believes the squad has lacked.
“When I heard that Sander was available I was quite excited about potentially bringing him in,” Italiano said.
“I reached out to a couple of people I know in Scotland to get a character reference and they were really positive, so I started pursuing it and seeing if it could happen.
“I’m really happy that the club have allowed me to find the resources to bring Sander in and make it happen so quickly.
“He’s an out and out 10… He bolsters the squad, gives us some depth and make us a little bit different.”
Kartum will join once his visa is approved and hopes to debut against the Jets. “I can’t wait to join the Phoenix,” he said.
He also consulted former Phoenix midfielder Cam Devlin, who encouraged the move.
The no. 16 shirt awaits Kartum, while Ishige’s contract has been mutually terminated as he remains in Wellington to continue rehab.
Photo credit: Malcolm Mackenzie / Hearts FC
