Behich returns to Melbourne Heart

While goalkeeper Tando Velaphi joins the team as the sixth recruit

Aziz Behich of Melbourne Heart wins the ball against Thomas Broich, and Mitch Nichols of Brisbane Roar, during the A League round 15, Melbourne Heart v Brisbane Roar in Melbourne, Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013. Melbourne Heart defeated Brisbane Roar 3-2. (AAP Image/Joe Castro)

26 July 2013 2:32pm

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Aziz Behich is back at Melbourne Heart after being signed for the 2013-14 season.

He is on a one season loan from his Turkish Super Lig club Bursaspor.

During his first stint with Melbourne Heart, Behich rose from injury replacement player to Socceroo, making 65 appearances for the Red and White before earning a move to Turkey.

“Aziz brings so many qualities to our club that it was a no-brainer to have him back. He is just so full of energy and passion for the Heart,” Aloisi said.

“We were proud that we could help Aziz take the massive step to Europe but equally disappointed to lose him midway through last season.”

Behich will arrive back in Melbourne this weekend for pre-season preparations.

The club has also signed goalkeeper Tando Velaphi to help out first-choice ‘keeper Andrew Redmayne for one season.

Behich, 22, and Velaphi, 26, are Melbourne Heart’s fifth and sixth off-season recruits, joining Iain Ramsay, Massimo Murdocca, Harry Kewell and Robbie Wielaert.