Central Coast Mariners have confirmed speculation that they have signed former Qantas Socceroo utility Mile Sterjovski on an initial one-season contract.
Central Coast Mariners have confirmed speculation that they have signed former Qantas Socceroo utility Mile Sterjovski on an initial one-season contract.
The experienced Sterjovski, who represented Australia under Guus Hiddink and Mariners boss Graham Arnold at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, will arrive on the Central Coast on Monday to formalise his deal.
Having worked with Sterjovski with the national team, Arnold said the former LOSC Lille, FC Basel and Derby County player would bring valuable know-how to the 2011/12 Hyundai A-League Premiers.
“I-ve known Mile for a long time and he will bring a lot of quality and experience to our squad,” Arnold said.
“He is a great guy who will fit in perfectly with the culture we have built at the Mariners.”
“Mile knows where the back of the net is and I am looking forward to him getting some goals for the club.”
Meanwhile, Arnold said the forthcoming addition of Sterjovski to Central Coast-s roster would assist his many young players in their professional development.
“Our squad has nine Australian players under the age of 22,” he said. “Our belief is in Australian youth again at the Mariners next season and this policy has served us well in the past.”
“Mile-s experience in testing leagues overseas and with the Socceroos will help our young boys enormously.”
After Sterjovski signs the Mariners will have 22 of a possible 23 players contracted for the 2012/13 campaign, and Arnold indicated he intends to leave one place open for the time being.
