Perth Glory have signed outgoing Wellington Phoenix goalkeeper and New Zealand international Oliver Sail on a three-year deal, set to commence at the end of the 2022-23 Isuzu UTE A-League season.
Sail, 27, departs the Phoenix after almost a decade spent at the club. It took until the 2020-21 season to establish himself as Wellington’s first choice goalkeeper; he’s made 63 league appearances across the past three seasons (71 in total), becoming one of the club’s most important players in the process.
But on March 3 the Phoenix vice-captain was confirmed as one of three off-contract players set to depart the club at the conclusion of the current A-League Men campaign. Sail’s rumoured destination has now been confirmed – and Glory head coach Ruben Zadkovich says securing the All Whites goalkeeper’s signature is “massive” for the future of the club.
“We have been targeting Oli for some time and I’m delighted we have secured his services for the next three seasons,” Zadkovich said.
“Character is very important in these types of builds and Oli has the right ingredients.
“He is clearly one of the best ‘keepers in the league, is at the peak of his powers and his presence on the grass is massive.”
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Sail’s signature comes just days after 21-year-old gloveman Cameron Cook commited his next three years to Glory with a contract extension.
“With both Oli and Cameron Cook locked in for the next three seasons, we have now created one of the strongest and most balanced goalkeeping departments in the country,” Zadkovich continued.
“I’m looking forward to watching them compete together on the grass.
“This signing is massive for the club and for the team. Oli will be a crucial part of turning quality performances into positive results next year and beyond.”
Glory head of recruitment Andy Keogh added: “He is the best ‘keeper in the A-League and a massive signing for our great club.
“It shows a real intent to add quality to what we have on the roster already.
“We look forward to him and Cameron working closely together and forging a really strong goalkeeping unit for this club.”
