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Melbourne Heart Confirm Kristian Sarkies And Matt Thompson Captures, Colosimo Quashes Rumours

It's a double - not a quadruple - swoop for the new franchise.

Nov 24, 2009 6:24:44 AM

Matt Thompson, Newcastle Jets (Getty Images)

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Matt Thompson, Newcastle Jets (Getty Images)

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Adelaide United midfielder Kristian Sarkies and Newcastle Jets captain Matt Thompson have officially joined new A-League franchise the Melbourne Heart on multi-year deals but Sydney FC defender Simon Colosimo has denied he’s close to signing with the club.

The Heart were linked earlier today with the three players, the name of Central Coast Mariners defender Dean Heffernan also among them.

“I am excited that Kristian and Matt have joined me at the club,” Heart manager John van’t Schip said.

“Both players are technically excellent, great professionals and moving toward the peak of their careers.

“We need players who are very comfortable on the ball but also players who are prepared to work hard in transition and when not in possession. I have watched both players closely and they have these qualities.”

Club captain Thompson lifted an A-League title with the Jets and has been with the club since its inaugural season, making his international debut in an Asian Cup Qualifier against Kuwait this year.

Olyroo Sarkies is similarly capped at senior international level and was part of the Adelaide United side that famously made the Asian Champions League final last season, starting in both legs of the final tie against Gamba Osaka.

Colosimo Denial

Sydney meanwhile have denied reports that their star defender Simon Colosimo is close to signing with the new franchise, the player himself making a statement today.

“I have not signed a contract with Melbourne Heart,” Colosimo said. “I have put all contract talk on hold until the end of the season.

“My focus is firmly on the field and I am really enjoying my football at Sydney FC and am aiming to win a championship with the club.

“At this time of year there’s often discussion around contracts, but my focus will be squarely on football and I won’t be commenting on any further contract speculation.”

Chris Paraskevas, Goal.com

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