Talented West Australian youngster Andrija Jukic will take the next step in his blossoming football career after signing a two year deal to play in the Hyundai A-League with Perth Glory.
Talented West Australian youngster Andrija Jukic will take the next step in his blossoming football career after signing a two year deal to play in the Hyundai A-League with Perth Glory.
The midfielder was part of Perth-s National Youth League set-up during the 2008/09 season where his outstanding performances earned him several opportunities with the senior squad.
Jukic, who captained the Youth side for the majority of the season, turned in some impressive displays including a hat trick against Sydney in round four and finished the season as the side-s leading scorer with six goals.
Glory Coach Dave Mitchell has kept a close eye on the 22 year old after seeing him in action first hand during Perth-s post-season tour of China last year.
“Andrija is a terrific young player and I have been impressed with the way he has continued to develop in the Youth Team set-up,” Mitchell said.
“Gareth Naven (Youth Team Coach) spoke very highly of Andrija and the effort he made throughout the season both on and off the pitch and that dedication has paid off.
“I-m confident he will be a solid contributor for Perth and make a big impression in the A-League next season,” Mitchell said.
Adept in front of goal and on the ball, Jukic can fill a variety of positions for Perth and is looking forward to the challenge of consistently performing at the highest level.
“I love playing football and have been working hard to get better and secure an A-League contract with the Glory and I now can-t wait for next season to begin,” Jukic said.
There won-t be any lack of support on the sidelines when Jukic lines up at Members Equity Stadium next season with his parents and five siblings, including sister Katarina who plays for Glory-s Westfield W-League side, ready to cheer him on.
“I come from a big football family and they have always been very encouraging and have supported me all the way and I-m sure they-ll be as excited as me when I get my chance next season,” Jukic said.
Profile
Full name: Andrija Jukic
Nationality: Australian
Place of birth: Perth, Western Australia
Date of birth: 3 January 1987 (age 22)
Height: 181cm
Weight: 78kg
2008/09 Season Stats: Hyundai A-League (4 apps), National Youth League (15 apps, 6 goals)
Representative honours: WA State Team U19, WA State Senior Team 2007 & 2008
Previous clubs: 2008 Perth SC (WA Premier League); 2007 Western Knights (WA Premier League)
