If new boss Robbie Fowler is the man to bring the glory days back to Brisbane Roar, he will need to shore up their defence. New arrival Tom Aldred could be just the man to help make that happen.
Experienced defender Aldred, 28, became the second signing of the ex-Liverpool great's reign in Queensland on Tuesday and believes he will be arriving in the Hyundai A-League at the peak of his powers.
Aldred – born in Bolton but capped by Scotland at U19 level – has played consistently for Scottish Premiership side Motherwell over the last two seasons while on loan from Bury.
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And although the 6ft 2in centre back has never previously set foot in Australia, his ambition will be music to the ears of Brisbane Roar supporters.
The Queenslanders conceded a staggering 71 goals in 2018/19 – an unwanted league record – in a hugely forgettable campaign.
“Physically and mentally as a centre half I do feel as good as I’ve been,” Aldred told BBC Lancashire.
“Hopefully I can improve. I’m going there [to Australia] to kick on, [to] take my career to another level.
“When the opportunity came about and I met Robbie, it was an opportunity I felt was too good to turn down.
“I’ve done my time in England as well and I just felt like the time was right. I’m over the moon and I’m just looking forward to getting started.“
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Fowler has also added prolific Hyundai A-League striker Roy O’Donovan, Shrewsbury Town's Aaron Amadi-Holloway, and Carlisle United defender Macaulay Gillesphey to his Roar rebuild.
The club are expected to announce two more signings on Wednesday – a midfielder and a defender, both from Australia.
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