Sydney FC striker Ranko Despotovic has endeared himself to a young Sky Blues fan after purchasing him a Sydney FC jersey in the Allianz Stadium merchandise club shop.
Sydney FC striker Ranko Despotovic has endeared himself to a young Sky Blues fan after purchasing him a Sydney FC jersey in the Allianz Stadium merchandise club shop.
Daniel Newfield, aged 6 from Rose Bay, had received a Sydney FC shirt for his birthday however it was too big.
He was in the shop exchanging the jersey with his father, Gary, when Ranko walked in and started talking to him.
“He was really nice and engaging,” Gary said.
“He asked if Daniel enjoyed soccer and if he was getting a shirt. Daniel is quite shy so he nodded in the affirmative and Ranko said well you can have any shirt you want, I-ll get you a present.”
Ranko proceeded to let Daniel pick out a jersey and purchase it for him, but not before making a pact with the six year old about his choice.
“He said jokingly you-re not allowed to have ‘number 10-Del Piero- you have to have ‘number 4 – Despotovic-,” said Gary.
“It was very unexpected and unnecessarily kind.
“There was no need for him to do such a marvellous thing, such a wonderful gesture. I was blown away by his warm manner and kindness.”
The Serbian International has become a fans favourite at Sydney FC scoring five goals in 10 matches since he joined the club in November and has no doubt added to his fan base with this selfless gesture.
“Hopefully he has a great season and stays on,” Gary said.
“I told him now he has got some more fans and that we-d be shouting for him from the stands.”
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