Newcastle Jets have bolstered their squad less than a fortnight out from the start of the new season with the addition of exciting attacker Valentino Yuel.
The 26-year-old winger has penned a two-year deal with the Hunter club after impressing interim boss Craig Deans during a short trial.
Yuel spent last season with Western United FC, making nine appearances in the club’s maiden season.
Kenyan-born Yuel joins the likes of Michael Neill and Ramy Najjarine as additions to the Jets squad so far ahead of the A-League 2020/21 Season.
The Jets open their season on New Year’s Eve, making the short trip down the M1 for the local derby against Central Coast Mariners. Kick-off is 7pm (AEDT).
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Nigro raring to go for Mariners
New Central Coast Mariners signing Stefan Nigro believes the opening round F3 Derby against Newcastle Jets is the perfect way to put 2020 in the rear-vision mirror and kick-off a fresh start for the club.
Nigro officially joined the Mariners last week after a short trial and joins and young and enthusiastic squad looking to move up the ladder in 2020/21.
The 24-year-old has made a good impression on coach Alen Stajcic and hopes to be involved for the club’s season-opener on New Year’s Eve against local rivals Newcastle Jets in Gosford.
“To be honest we’re just embracing it [this season] for what it is,” Nigro said on the Mariners’ website.
“I know for everyone around the world, it has been a year of adversity but there’s a buzz around the season starting, our game is on New Year’s Eve, we’re having fans back, that stuff is going to be great.”
“It will be great to see young talent get an opportunity, I know when I watched the games post-COVID you could see that and I think we’re all just really excited for it to start. Pre-season is good but everyone looks forward to the real thing starting.”
“There’s no better way to start the season than a derby. We’re all excited, we can’t wait.”
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Maclaren in hot form ahead of new season
Last season’s Golden Boot winner Jamie Maclaren appears in ominous form ahead of the new campaign after starring in Melbourne City’s pre-season friendly win over Western United FC on the weekend.
The Socceroos striker scored a brace as Patrick Kisnorbo’s men prevailed 3-2 at Morshead Park in Ballarat.
Maclaren scored after just seven minutes with a slick finish from inside the box, before Aiden O’Neill doubled City’s lead with his first goal for his new club.
United pulled one back through Connor Pain before the break before Maclaren completed his brace with 19 minutes left.
Maclaren finished as last season’s top scorer with 22 goals for the campaign, edging out Adam Le Fondre (20) and Besart Berisha (19).
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Fans get chance to meet their Reds heroes
Adelaide United supporters will get the chance to get up close and personal with their heroes with the club to hold a fan day at Coopers Stadium on Saturday, December 19.
The event will run from 9am-12pm, with fans getting the chance to watch an open training session for both the A-League and Westfield W-League squads.
Once training is complete, fans will get to enjoy a kick on the Coopers Stadium pitch.
Merchandise will be on sale for your last-minute Christmas gifts, while a membership tent will be set up for those looking to be there for the big moments. Entry is free.
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