For the first time in nearly nine years, Aleksandar Susnjar will be back in the place of his birth as Perth Glory unveils the former youth player as their latest signing for the upcoming A-League season.
The 28-year-old who initially represented Serbia before switching to the country of his birth has most recently been a defensive stalwart for A-League rivals Macarthur FC notching up 50 appearances in the past three seasons.
At 1.92m tall the one-time Socceroo has proved to be a significant aerial threat and could form a dominant central defensive partnership with Jordan Elsey.
Susnjar said he is excited to be back in familiar surroundings.
“I went to Glory games when I was a kid and did a year in the youth academy … coming back home is something that I’ve always considered but just haven’t had the opportunity to do,” he said.
“Last year was a bit of a hard year for me, but coming back to Perth and being around family, I feel like I can get back on the park and keep moving forward.
“Personally, I’m here to do my best and help the team, working together, I think aiming for the finals is something that’s achievable for us.
Glory Head Coach Alen Stajcic believes that Susnjar is an important addition to the squad.
“Aleks will add a vast amount of experience to our team having played in both Europe and in the A-League and made over 200 first-team appearances,” he said.
“Having another Perth local re-connect with our club is an important part of our vision moving forward.”
It’s not the only familiar face the Glory will be taking on as the club announced it will be playing a pre-season friendly against Melbourne Victory led by former coach Tony Popovic in Bunbury at Hay Park on October 1.
The pre-season clash will form part of a three-day program of football events and follows visits by the Women’s team in 2017 and 2019.