Glory marquee Mile Sterjovski will feature in his first domestic match in Australia since 2000 when he lines-up for Perth in the club’s round one encounter against Adelaide at Hindmarsh Stadium.
Glory marquee Mile Sterjovski will feature in his first domestic match in Australia since 2000 when he lines-up for Perth in the club-s round one encounter against Adelaide at Hindmarsh Stadium.
Sterjovski last played a domestic match on home soil with Parramatta Power in the old National Soccer League before embarking on a successful European career that included stints with Swiss powerhouse FC Basel and English side Derby County.
The Socceroos star has returned home for the Hyundai A-League 2009/10 season and is jumping at the chance of suiting up for the Glory.
“It-s been quite a while since I-ve played (in this country), but I-m looking forward to it,” Sterjovski said.
“I know the standard has improved since the old NSL days. Every team in the A-League this year is looking pretty strong, so it-s going to be a good league.”
Glory face two tough away clashes to start the season with Adelaide in round one followed by a trip across the Tasman in round two to tackle Wellington.
Sterjovski said improving the club-s away form would be a key focus this season after only taking four points from a possible 33 on the road last campaign. He revealed the squad had set themselves the task of capturing at least four points in their opening two away fixtures in a bold start to the new season.
“We know we have to do better away from home, if we can improve on that aspect it will go a long way to achieving our finals aspirations,” Sterjovski said.
“It is something we are definitely working on and I-m sure you-ll see improved performances from the team on the road.”
With the flexibility to play up front or in the midfield, Sterjovski has indicated his willingness to take on any role Coach Dave Mitchell feels he can best benefit the team.
“I-ve told Mitch that I-m available to play any position so I could even see myself in midfield this week.
“We-ll wait and see on Thursday or Friday who is fit and who-s ready to play,” he said.
No matter where Sterjovski plays he will be a danger to opposition defenders and has set himself a target of at least 10 goals this season, a feat that would have him amongst the leagues- top scorers.
