Mariners snap up Sterjovski

Central Coast Mariners snap up ex-Socceroo Mile Sterjovski

Jul 7, 2012 7:25:00 AM

Graham Arnold's side have confirmed they have signed former Australia international Mile Sterjovski on a one-season deal after he was released by Chinese club Dalian Aerbin

The highly regarded 33-year-old, who most recently plied his trade for Chinese club Dalian Aerbin, played for Australia at the 2006 World Cup under Guus Hiddink and Mariners coach Graham Arnold, and will arrive in Gosford on Monday to formalise his deal.

Arnold said he was delighted to have lured such an experienced and polished campaigner as Sterjovski to Bluetongue Stadium, and feels he will be an excellent mentor for some of the younger members of the team.

"I've known Mile for a long time and he will bring a lot of quality and experience to our squad," Arnold said.

"He is a great guy who will fit in perfectly with the culture we have built at the Mariners. Mile knows where the back of the net is and I am looking forward to him getting some goals for the club.

"Our squad has nine Australian players under the age of 22. Our belief is in Australian youth again at the Mariners next season and this policy has served us well in the past.

"Mile's experience in testing leagues overseas and with the Socceroos will help our young boys enormously."

The signing of the former Lille, Derby and Basel winger brings the Mariners' tally of contracted players to 22 of their allowed 23, and Arnold said he would leave the final place open for the time being.

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