New Zealand international Te Atawhai Hudson-Wihongi has been unveiled as another new recruit by Wellington Phoenix coach Ufuk Talay.
The 24-year-old, who trialed with the club before last season, has inked a one-year with the Phoenix.
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“I’m feeling very excited to be here and relieved as it’s been a long time coming for me,” he told the club’s official website.
“Last year, I faced two untimely injuries which ruled out the chance to sign so this a great moment for me and I can’t wait to make my mark here in Wellington.”
PLAYER NEWS | Another talented kiwi on the books! ✍️🇳🇿
Wellington Phoenix are proud to announce the signing of Te Atawhai Hudson-Wihongi for the upcoming @ALeague 2019/20 season.
Congratulations T! 🔥
Read more here 👉 https://t.co/NBjtwcUY7H#StandUpWithYourNix pic.twitter.com/3ngQbiFCTW
— Wellington Phoenix 🔥 (@WgtnPhoenixFC) July 18, 2019
Hudson-Wihongi currently plays in Auckland’s Lotto NRFL Premier League with Onehunga Sports FC but has previously represented OFC Champions Auckland City.
He also played for New Zealand at in the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup and 2015 Pacific Games where he scored in a 5-0 group game win over New Caledonia.
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The strong defender has also played eight times for the All Whites after making his debut in November 2015 in a 1-0 win over Oman.
“Te Atawhai is a young player that has already experienced a lot in his career on the International and FIFA Club World Cup stage so I’m looking forward to seeing his progression on a daily basis,” Talay said.
The Auckland-born star has also had stints at Major League Soccer club Real Salt Lake in 2012 as well as in New Zealand with Wanderers SC.
