A-League newcomer Macarthur FC (the Bulls) have shown serious intent for the coming season with their first overseas signing of former Blackburn Rovers and Birmingham City striker Matt Derbyshire.
The 34-year-old Englishman who played 76 games in the English Premier League and went on to play for Omonia Nikosia in Cyprus for four years, joins Mark Milligan, Tommy Oar, Adam Fedirici and Denis Genrau in the Bulls team.
An experienced striker with 150 top class goals to his name, Derbyshire represented the England Under-21 squad 14 times from 2007 to 2009 before joining Olympiacos scoring 11 goals from 21 appearnaces for the Athens-based Greek champions.
Macarthur FC coach Ante Milicic said Derbyshire, who has signed for two years, brings experience and a good form from his stint in Cyprus.
“Sixty-two goals from 113 appearances and 10 goal assists for Omonia in Cyprus, plus (English) Premier League experience, Matt is a perfect fit to spearhead our attack,” said Mr Milicic on the club website.
“Matt is a very strong player who competes on every challenge. Technically sound and good mover on his feet. He is quality finisher and am looking forward to seeing him in the A-League.” he added.
The club’s ambassador Brett Emerton knows a thing or two about the new signing having played with Derbyshire at Blackburn Rovers.
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“Having played with Matt at Blackburn, I know he will be a perfect fit for the club, an out and out striker. He has three young boys and some family here in Australia. It will be a great opportunity for them to see him play.” Said Mr Emerton.
Derbyshire is set to join the new squad after a two-week quarantine is looking forward to the new challenge.
“I have never played in Australia before, and am not only looking forward to the challenge of a top-quality league, but also playing my part in building a new club that the region will be proud of,” said Mr Derbyshire.