NRMA Insurance Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper Ante Covic this week signed with the club for another season.
NRMA Insurance Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper Ante Covic this week signed with the club for another season.
Covic, 37, said he thoroughly enjoyed playing for the Wanderers and his decision to commit for the 2013/14 season was an easy one.
“I am happy with committing to another year here and I think the whole set-up that has occurred here at the Wanderers is fantastic, from the supporters to the players to the coaches,” Covic said.
“It is such a natural thing for me to sign here, I am still enjoying playing football.”
The experienced goalkeeper started his career at Marconi and has played for clubs in Greece and Sweden before enjoying a Hyundai A-League career at Newcastle Jets and Melbourne Victory.
The 193cm-tall goalkeeper has been a major part of the equal best defence in the A-League this season for the Wanderers conceding only 10 goals in 13 matches.
Covic said there were a range of reasons he wanted to remain a Wanderer.
“The whole Wanderers set-up has impressed me immensely,” Covic said.
“To be playing at Parramatta Stadium in front of a crowd that is as passionate as the one we have with a coach and a club that has a clear vision and a bunch of players that are fantastic to be around.
“There is not just one thing that stands out.
“It is a credit to the organisation that is the Wanderers and what it has brought and it has made my decision a lot easier to stay here.”
Coach Tony Popovic said he was very happy to have Covic onboard for another season and the goalkeeper had delivered everything he had expected of him.
“He is an outstanding goalkeeper and leader at the football club, and he has had a great season so far,” Popovic said.
“We don-t see any reason why he can-t play at this level for at least another season and maybe more.”
Executive Chairman Lyall Gorman said Covic brought presence and charisma to the Club.
“Ante brings character and experience that has accelerated the development of the Wanderers at such a crucial time in its evolution,” Gorman said.
“He has a rich experience and a strength that is invaluable in guiding and leading those around him.
“On and off the field he has been tremendous and he epitomises what the club is about.”
The Wanderers- next home game is against Melbourne Victory FC at 6.15pm on January 1 at Parramatta Stadium.
Kids will be allowed in for free for all Wanderers games in January.
