In a major coup for Western Australian football and the Hyundai A-League, Perth Glory FC is excited and proud to announce it has re-signed Johnny Warren medallist and 2015/16 Most Glorious Player (MGP) Diego Castro, for one more year.
After sweeping an unprecedented five club awards and voted as the Hyundai A-League’s best player, the 33-year old Spanish marquee said he did not want his first year in Perth to be his last.
Watch Diego Castro’s message to members and fans:
“After the year we’ve just had, I feel we have a lot of unfinished business at Perth Glory and I want to win a championship. I’ve seen what it means to the club, the members and the city and I would like to be part of history.
“It’s been an amazing journey so far for me and my family and an experience we’ve loved. But it’s not just about me; it’s about the team and this city” Castro said.
The club’s Golden boot winner, who scored 13 goals last season, said after a recent heart-to-heart chat with Coach Kenny Lowe in Madrid, the goal for the next year was clear.
“Nothing more would make me happy than to be part of a revitalised team that’s ready to hit the ground running and go all the way and win our first premiership and championship”.
Lowe said he was delighted to have Australia’s best player back in the fold for another season.
“First and foremost Diego is a good person and a true professional. We know what he brings to the table and what he offers to the boys around him”.
“We have our goals and our plans in mind and Diego is an important part of all those plans moving forward” he said.
Castro also unveiled the club’s new hashtag and call to action for the coming season #GloryIsOurs which will be used for match days, club activations and across social media.
Further boosting Glory’s squad for the Hyundai A-League 2016/17 season, the club can confirm it has re-signed skipper Richard Garcia for another year, making him the 13th WA born or raised player who will don the 20th year anniversary kit.
As part of a wider role, Garcia will mentor younger players and assist Kenny Lowe and his coaching staff where needed.
“I’m very happy and excited to have re-signed for my hometown club for another year” Garcia said.
“The squad is looking very strong and with so many home grown players returning, I’m sure the passion and pride within the squad and the fan base will be stronger than ever” he added.
Castro and Garcia are the 10th and 11th signings for the coming season, following the recruitment of English international Joe Mills, Perth born Socceroos, Adam Taggart, Chris Herd and Rhys Williams coupled with the one year extensions to defenders Marc Warren, Aryn Williams and Josh Risdon and the signings of goalkeepers Nick Feely and Jordan Thurtell.
Castro is expected to join his teammates in early August.
