Sydney FC has completed two transfer deadline day deals with winger Mitch Austin joining the club until the end of the season while striker Charles Lokoli-Ngoy has been released to pursue another opportunity.
Austin signs for the Sky Blues in time to face Melbourne City on Sunday afternoon (5pm kick off) and will join fellow new signing Reza Ghoochannejhad in training with the Hyundai A-League squad for the first time tomorrow.
“I’m very happy to be joining Sydney FC and it feels like I’m coming home,” said the 27-year old, who began his youth career with Manly United.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for me to be joining the current Premiers and my intention is to win trophies with the club.
“Sydney FC has been the dominant force within the Hyundai A-League over the past few years and to be signing for a club with such a winning mentality is an honour.
“To get the chance to compete for a place in the AFC Champions League squad is hugely exciting for me, as is playing for the club I supported as a boy.”
Head Coach Steve Corica said: “Mitch has got a lot of pace and can play anywhere across our frontline so will give us an extra option up front.
“He will worry defenders and added to the quality we already have in our forward line, I think it will strengthen our squad.”
Meanwhile striker Charles Lokoli-Ngoy leaves the club following three and a half successful seasons with the club.
The 21-year old has had success winning the Hyundai A-League Championship, the Premiers Plate twice and the FFA Cup.
He was also instrumental in securing the NPL2 Championship and promotion for the Sky Blues in 2016, when he was top scorer.
On leaving the club the Congolese born forward said: “I’ve been at Sydney FC for the last four years and have had a fantastic grounding in the game.
“When I first came to the club Steve was my Head Coach in the youth team squad and he has been a guiding light in my development along with Rob Stanton and the other members of the coaching staff, so I thank them for believing in me.
“I’d also like to thank our Members and fans for their support from the NPL to my time in the first team.
“I’ve had some amazing experiences however now is the right time for me to move on a pursue a new challenge in my career.”
Head Coach Steve Corica thanked Charles and wished him well in the future.
“Charles has been an excellent servant for the club and we will always have good memories of his time at Sydney FC.
“He has been a valuable part of our recent success and we wish him well in his future endeavours.”
Lokoli-Ngoy vacates the number 21 shirt which will now be worn by Austin.
