Australia NewsZura To Start For Jets in Derby |
NEWCASTLE Jets marquee Edmundo Zura has received clearance to play in tonight’s blockbuster Round 1 clash against local rivals the Central Coast Mariners.
With the formalities now in place, the path has been paved for the Ecuadorian international to make his A-League debut in front of Jets fans.Capped 7 times by his country, and with an impressive goalscoring record in his homeland, Zura arrived in Australia to much excitement a fortnight ago.
Zura captained an Ecuadorian Under-20’s side to the 2007 Pan American Games title. It was a tournament that shot the young striker to fame as he scored 3 goals – including the match winning penalty in the Final – en-route to Ecuador’s first major football trophy.
The reigning A-League Champions will now take the field this evening with a strike force that includes Zura and last season’s Johnny Warren Medallist and Golden Boot Winner, Joel Griffiths.
Jets coach Gary van Egmond has expressed his excitement about his marquee signing being available for the season opener.
“Zura will start for sure and we look forward to him playing,” van Egmond said.
“He gives us a real presence up front, he can hold the ball up and get in behind, he’s quick. So we think he can really be a benefit to the football team."
Club CEO John Tsatsimas today conveyed Jets’ delight at having a player of Zura’s ability join the club ahead of the season kick-off.
“It’s obviously fantastic to have Zura ready to go for our first game of the season, particularly given that it is a derby at home in a Grand Final re-match. It’s a pleasure to have him here as part of our club.
“We’re certain that our fans will get a thrill out of seeing him take to the pitch at EnergyAustralia Stadium this evening.”
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