Perth Glory has confirmed that current Qantas Socceroo Mile Sterjovski will be its marquee player for the next three seasons, after luring the attacking midfielder back home from the English Championship.
Sterjovski, who recently turned 30, has played in France, Turkey and England since he left NSL club Parramatta Power in 2000, but believes his prospects of playing in next year’s World Cup will be enhanced by playing regular first team football, something he wasn’t getting at his previous club Derby County.
Perth coach David Mitchell is delighted with the signing, saying he is confident Sterjovksi can make a big impact in the Hyundai A-League.
“There is no doubt Mile is a terrific player,” he said. “He is also a wonderful character and true professional who’ll significantly add to our squad and the A-League in general.”
“Mile will positively impact matches for Perth Glory week in and week out and I’m delighted he has agreed to join the club,” Mitchell said. “When you look at the marquee status and the criteria to fill that role then Mile fits the bill perfectly.”
Sterjovski, a veteran of 40 international appearances, joins fellow Qantas Socceroo squad member Jacob Burns at the club.
“If someone had said a few months ago that we’d have two Socceroos in our squad for the start of the new season it would have been quickly dismissed, however that’s exactly what we’ve done, we’ve added quality, and Glory supporters have a lot to get excited about this season,” Mitchell said.
Sterjovski is happy to be back playing his football in Australia, where he will team up with another former Derby man in Andy Todd.
“I’m very happy to be joining Perth, the players they have brought into the club show their desire and commitment to challenge for honours this season and I’m looking forward to being part of that,” Sterjovski said.
“You couldn’t get a better professional than Andy Todd and Jacob is a great player and a long time friend. It certainly made the decision easier to know those boys were there and I’m looking forward to meeting the other guys and gelling with a squad that I’m sure can achieve great results this season.”
“I’m determined to be part of the World Cup and playing regularly at a successful club will enhance my chances. There are parallels between Perth Glory’s success and my goal of playing in next year’s World Cup and I believe both can be achieved,” Sterjovski said.
Sterjovski leaves Derby with his former boss’ blessing, Rams manager Nigel Clough saying that it was for the benefit of his international career.
“It is an important year for Mile if he wishes to be involved in Australia’s World Cup squad, and for that reason alone he needs to be playing regular first-team football,” Clough said.
“It is not something I could guarantee here so it is in the best interest of both parties for him to return to Australia. Mile is an excellent pro and I have no doubt he will be a big star in the A-League.”
“He leaves with the best wishes of everybody at Derby County.”
