World NewsAussie Joe Simunic Signs for Hoffenheim |
Hoffenheim have signed Aussie-born Croatia defender Josip Simunic from Hertha Berlin.
The Canberra-bred, AIS-trained 31-year-old has penned a contract until 2012 with Ralf Rangnick's men as they look to build on their impressive first season in the Bundesliga.The capture of former Melbourne Knight Simunic, who has 70 caps for Croatia and has played more than 200 Bundesliga games for Hertha, genuine title contenders last season, is a coup for Hoffenheim.
Simunic told Hoffenheim's offfical website: "I played in Berlin for 10 years, the time was intense and I will look back on it fondly.
"I see in Hoffenheim a young, modern club with big ambitions and I am very much looking forward to being able to give my experience to this young team with a lot of potential."
Hoffenheim finished seventh in their debut season in the top flight, having led the pack at the halfway stage.
Rangnick believes Simunic will add much-needed experience to his side.
He said: "With the signing of Josip we have closed the gap which arose through the departure of several experienced players in the last half a year."
Copyright (c) 2009 Press Association
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