Maclaren 'desperate' to make City impact, says delighted Joyce

Melbourne City boss Warren Joyce said new signing Jamie Maclaren is “desperate” to hit the ground running at his new Hyundai A-League club.

City announced the signing of Maclaren on a three-and-a-half year deal on Friday morning, a major boost for Joyce as the club looks to cement a top-four spot.

The Caltex Socceroos forward has been prolific in the Hyundai A-League, scoring 51 goals in 91 appearances during stints at Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar.

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Maclaren has played in Germany and Scotland since departing Australia and Joyce said he was “delighted” with his signing.

“Obviously delighted to get it over the line,” Joyce told reporters on Friday.

“There’s a few hoops that we had to get through but delighted to get it over the line.

“He’s got a reputation for scoring goals … he’s a proven goalscorer.

“He’s a Melbourne lad, he plays for his country, he is desperate to come back here ... and desperate to make an impression and do well for the fans and help the players of the football club.”


Joyce said Maclaren’s age profile significantly appealed to him and that the striker was keen to “help the young players” at City.

“I think if you’re looking at ages of players, he is coming into his best years which is a plus for us,” he added.

“You want really the bulk of your side being 25 to 26 to 28, really, they’re the best years … so hopefully we’re getting his best years.

“He’s delighted that it’s gone through. I spoke to him this morning, he was desperate to get on a plane and itching to get here.

“[He is] desperate to help the young players and desperate to be a leader within the group and move the club forward.”

Maclaren has not arrived in Australia yet and as a result is not in contention to face Sydney FC on Sunday.

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This article was originally published on the Hyundai A-League website.
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