You’ll be seeing Harry Kewell adorn the number 10 red and white jersey as he was finally confirmed as the new Melbourne Heart recruit.
The 34-year-old Socceroo legend will join his former teammate’s side as he prepares for national selection again.
Kewell said that Melbourne Heart was the perfect fit under coach John Aloisi.
“It’s always been my intention to come back and play in the A-League,” Kewell said.
“John Aloisi and I have known each other a long time and we have played together, so I’m thrilled to be part of Melbourne Heart at an exciting time.”
Coach Aloisi is currently rebuilding his squad as he scouts for players in Europe. He has already added Iain Ramsay and Massimo Murdocca during the off-season and was in talks with Kewell for quite some time.
“I have been in regular contact with Harry over the past few months and have been so struck and impressed by his hunger,” Aloisi said.
“He has always been a wonderful professional and a winner and, in spending time with him, nothing has changed.
“I watched Harry’s progress in the Middle East very closely and it’s clear that physically he is in great condition so we are confident that, with a big pre-season, he will be flying by round one.’
Heart CEO Scott Munn said the star player was keen to return back home to Melbourne.
“He absolutely loves the city of Melbourne and, significantly, he has a desire to work closely to develop our younger players,” he said.
“Harry is not coming to the club as a marquee player – and will be within the salary cup – but as a player with a lot to prove and some unfinished business.”
Earlier reports mentioned Kewell would not be receiving preferential treatment, and was said to have been offered a starting salary of $48,000.
Kewell still carries his Socceroos, Leeds United and Liverpool name and will definitely draw big crowds at the Melbourne Derby in October.
