Sydney FC has continued to strengthen its squad during the January transfer window with the signing of 24 year old Australian left sided midfielder Robert Stambolziev.
The youngster becomes Head Coach Graham Arnold’s third signing of the month following deals to bring Senegalese internationals Mickael Tavares and Jacques Faty to the club.
Stambolziev has spent the last eight years of his career playing in Europe beginning in the youth team at English club Bristol City before moving to Greek giants Panathinaikos in 2009 and finishing up at Niki Volos in the Greek Super League.
“It’s fantastic to be coming home to Australia and signing for the Hyundai A-League’s most prominent club,” said Stambolziev.
“I’ve been here for a short time on trial and I’ve been able to see the huge amount of quality in this squad. I know Graham Arnold has a reputation as a great coach and the club has a family feel and good culture among the players.
“I can see it is really geared for success and I’m hoping I can be a part of that. Being an Australian I already know the passion of the Sky Blues supporters and it will be an honour to represent them.”
The left sided midfielder has signed a contract until the end of the season as an injury replacement for Young Socceroo Corey Gameiro, who ruptured knee ligaments while playing in China during an under 23 international game against Korea.
Head Coach Graham Arnold believes he has seen enough of the 24 year old Stambolziev to know he will offer the squad something extra this season.
“It’s great to be able to bring in an attacking Australian player who will add depths to our attacking line up,” said Arnold.
“He’s got pace and can play out wide as well and has had good experience playing in England, Greece and Cyprus over the last eight years.”
Sydney FC face the Central Coast Mariners in Gosford this Saturday evening (kick off 7.30pm).
Profile:
Name: Robert Stambolziev
Age: 24
Born: October 26th 1990.
Place of Birth: Melbourne.
Nationality: Australian
Height: 181 cm
Career Apps (Goals)
2007-2009 – Bristol City 0 (0)
2009-2011 – Panathinaikos 0 (0)
2009 – Kavala (loan) 0 (0)
2011 – 2012 – Proodeftiki 3 (0)
2012 – Thrasyvoulos 10 (1)
2012 – 2013 – Olympiakos Nicosia 24 (0)
2013 – 2014 – AEK Kouklia 27 (6)
2014 – 2015 – Niki Volos 6 (0)
2015 – Sydney FC
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