Sydney FC is pleased to announce the signing of attacking midfielder Ali Abbas on a two year contract.
Sydney FC is pleased to announce the signing of attacking midfielder Ali Abbas on a two year contract.
The Iraqi international agreed terms over the weekend and immediately joined his new Sky Blue team mates for training this morning.
Sydney FC Head Coach Ian Crook said: “I believe Ali is a fantastic addition to the squad and will have a big impact on the team.
“He has great endurance and is very quick. He is also naturally left footed which is something we-ve been missing on the left wing recently.
“I think we have done well to have beaten off competition from other clubs for his signature and he will prove to be a very exciting signing for the Sydney FC fans.”
25-year old Abbas was a member of the victorious Iraqi national team that won the Asian Cup in 2007 and has spent the last three years playing in the Hyundai A-League with the Newcastle Jets.
“I’m really happy to be joining Sydney FC. It is exciting for me to be moving to one of the biggest clubs in Australia, which already has a history of success in the A-League,” said Abbas.
“Sydney FC has a strong squad and a great coaching staff, and I look forward to working with both.
“Now I’m ready to focus on training for next season, and help the team challenge for another title.”
Abbas has a remarkable story having fled war-torn Iraq after playing an under 23-s international against the Olyroos in Gosford four years ago.
He was granted asylum to stay in Australia and rebuilt his football career with Marconi Stallions in the New South Wales Premier League.
Michael Roth of Inspire Sports Management said: “Ali’s story since moving to Australia is inspirational, and this is the next chapter in an amazing journey for him.
“Hopefully he will flourish with Sydney FC, which will put him in a position to challenge for a place in his national team.”
Sydney FC is taking expressions of interest from fans keen to register their support for the 2012-13 season. Simply log onto my.sydneyfc.com to update or add your information.
