Signing news: City bolster squad with addition of Scottish international Hendry

Melbourne City’s Hyundai A-League title hopes have received a major boost with the signing of Scottish international defender Jack Hendry.

Hendry arrives from Scottish champions Celtic for the remainder of the 2019/20 Season as an injury replacement for Richard Windbichler.

The 24-year-old is a towering physical presence and will provide excellent competition with Harrison Delbridge and Curtis Good for the central defensive positions.

“We are really pleased to be able to sign a defender of Jack’s ability to our squad,” City Director of Football Michael Petrillo said.

“He comes to the club with experience in the Scottish Premier League and with invaluable European competition experience.

“His physical attributes and composure on the ball is a welcome addition to the squad and will provide more competitive depth to our defence.”

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We've bolstered our backline with the signing of Jack Hendry!

— Melbourne City FC (@MelbourneCity) January 22, 2020

Hendry has made 15 appearances for Celtic – where he was teammate to former Hyundai A-League stars Tom Rogic and Daniel Arzani – after joining the Hoops in 2018.

He has also spent time at clubs like Partick Thistle, Wigan Athletic, Shrewsbury Town, MK Dons and Dundee FC.

Hendry’s talent has also seen him earn three caps for the Scottish national team, making his debut against Hungary in 2018.

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With Windbichler set to miss at least six weeks with a serious hamstring injury, City jumped at the chance to sign a player of Hendry’s pedigree.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge of coming to Australia and continuing my development at Melbourne City,” Hendry said.

“It’s an exciting prospect to come to another league across the globe and play football and for the time I am at the club, I’m fully committed to achieving success at Melbourne City.”

Hendry could make his City debut as early as Saturday night against Perth Glory, providing his visa approval and international clearance comes through.

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