Perth Glory have added experienced Hyundai A-League defender Tarek Elrich to their squad on an 18-month deal.
Elrich, who has played close to 300 games in the Hyundai A-League, joins Glory after he was released by Western Sydney Wanderers last week.
It was at the Wanderers where Elrich first worked under current Glory boss Tony Popovic having been one of the Red and Black’s first three signings ahead of their debut campaign in 2012/13.
“Tony taught me a lot and this is a great time to work under him again,” Elrich told Glory’s official website.
“Perth Glory is a successful club with a rich history in both the NSL and A-League and I want to help the club to continue that success.
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“I’ve had a taste of silverware in the past and want more.
“I know a lot of the boys in the squad, especially Liam Reddy who I’ve known half my life and that made the decision to move over a lot easier.”
The 33-year-old, who won an Hyundai A-League title with Newcastle Jets in 2008, spent one season at the Wanderers – winning the Premiers’ Plate – before departing for Adelaide United, where he stayed until the end of the Hyundai A-League 2017/18 Season.
Elrich enjoyed more success with the Reds, helping the club win the FFA Cup in 2014 as well as a Premiership-Championship double in the 2015/16 Season.
Glory Football Director Jacob Burns says Elrich is a key acquisition for the club, especially as they prepare to juggle both Hyundai A-League and AFC Champions League commitments.
“Tarek is an athletic and gifted player who brings great experience and versatility,” Burns said.
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@elrich11 is on board!
The versatile defender becomes Glory's third new recruit of the January transfer window.
Full details here: https://t.co/IPvT43bzfC
@ALeague #OneGlory pic.twitter.com/O0fp1UuLY2— Perth Glory FC (@PerthGloryFC) January 28, 2020
“He can play anywhere across the back five and has a proven track record as a winner wherever he’s played during his career.
“His signing gives our stocks a major boost at what is a hugely important stage of the season and takes us to our full quota of players, thereby rounding out what has been a very successful January transfer window for the club.”
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