The man who scored Adelaide United’s first-ever goal in the Hyundai A-League is back at the club, with Carl Veart joining new boss Gertjan Verbeek’s coaching staff.
Veart, who also has the honour of scoring the first-ever Hyundai A-League goal on the opening night of the inaugural 2005/06 campaign, was confirmed as Verbeek’s new assistant on Friday.
Welcome back, Carl! 😍 #AUFC
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— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) June 28, 2019
The 49-year-old had been working as the head coach of Football Federation South Australia’s NTC program and was previously an Australian U-20 Assistant Coach.
It’s not the first time Veart has been a part of the Reds’ coaching staff, also acting as an assistant during the tenure of Aurelio Vidmar.
“Adelaide United has always had a special place in my heart, playing for the club and representing the people of South Australia,” Veart told Adelaide United’s official website.
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“So to come back and be part of the coaching staff ahead of the new season, it’s something I’m really looking forward to and I’m honoured to be given this opportunity.
“It’s going to be a great learning experience for me, working alongside Gertjan who has had a lot of experience in Europe. I’m eager to offer my experience as well, especially as a former player of Adelaide United.”
The news of Veart’s appointment follows a recent trend of former players coming back to the club, after ex-skipper Eugene Galekovic returned as goalkeeper coach and Bruce Djite becoming the Reds’ Director of Football.
Veart brings a wealth of experience not only as a coach but also as a player, having represented the Caltex Socceroos on 18 occasions.
At club-level, his career spanned 19 years in both Australia and England with Adelaide City, Sheffield United, Crystal Palace, Millwall and Adelaide United.
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“Carl is a phenomenal acquisition for us and he brings a wealth of experience to this role with a long-established connection to the club,” Djite said.
“Carl is not only a great coach, but also a great person to have around and I am sure his contribution will be invaluable to Gertjan and the rest of the coaching staff and players.”
