Two of the stars from Championship winning Greek NPL clubs have been snapped up by A-League club Wellington Phoenix on the eve of the new A-League season.

Heidelberg United’s versatile left back Reuben Way, is headed to the land of the long white cloud. He follows skilful Sydney Olympic midfielder Max Burgess who signed a one year contract with the Phoenix last week.

Twenty-eight-year old Way joined Heidelberg United in 2015 from Brisbane club Olympic FC and went on to become a mainstay of the club, playing 118 games and scoring 21 goals, leaving the club on a high with a Premiership-Championship double.

“It is amazing to be here with Wellington Phoenix as I thought the dream of playing in the Hyundai A-League was over,” he commented on the Wellington website about his chance to play in the A-League.

“I have played against Mark’s Sydney FC side so I am well aware of the fight his teams show and I believe I will bring that determination and passion to the squad.”

Phoenix Coach Mark Rudan says, “Reuben has been a mainstay at a very successful club for a number of years and deserves this opportunity.

“He is the second player we’ve signed from the NPL.

“I believe in the players at that level who, if given a chance, can shine in this competition.”

Way’s signing follows last week’s pick up by Phoenix of Sydney Olympic playmaker Max Burgess, whose standout work in the middle of the park was a major factor in Sydney Olympic’s doubles success this season. All up, the 23-year-old Burgess scored seven goals in 23 appearances for Olympic this campaign as well as providing numerous assists. It’s not the first time Burgess has played for an A-League club, having previously played for Sydney FC and Newcastle Jets before joining Sydney Olympic.

Burgess said on the Wellington Phoenix website, “I am extremely excited to be signing with the Wellington Phoenix and I am determined to make my mark with my new team.

“When I heard of the interest, I jumped at the chance and with the encouragement I have received from Mark Rudan, I can’t wait to get started.”

Rudan says, “He has tasted Hyundai A-League experience before but I feel that he has plenty more to show.
“We have the perfect environment for him to develop and show that true potential he holds.
“I’m looking forward to having his attributes and his hard work ethic within the squad.”