Central Coast Mariners have continued their summer shopping spree, acquiring the most high-profile signature of the lot, Liverpool legend Luis Garcia, who will join the Gosford club until at least the end of the 2015-16 season.
The news comes as a major coup for the club that has endured a tough season, currently on the bottom of the table and having experienced a merry-go-round of playing personnel.
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The Spaniard says he is delighted to be linking up with the “progressive” Mariners, a club the 37-year-old says possesses promising young talent.
“I am delighted to be joining a club like the Central Coast Mariners. This is an exciting challenge for me to play in the Hyundai A-League and with such a progressive club like the Mariners,” Garcia said.
“One of the things that attracted me to the club was the opportunity to share my experience with a young playing group. I am also looking forward to playing football in one of the most beautiful places in the world.”
Like Garcia, Mariners CEO Shaun Mielekamp could not hide his delight.
“This is a huge opportunity for not only the Central Coast Mariners and the Central Coast region but also for football in Australia,” Mielekamp said.
“It continues our journey towards becoming the most entertaining, innovative and community-minded sports brand in Australia.”
Tony Walmsley is expected to comment on the move after the Mariners’ clash against Adelaide United.
Garcia last plied his trade for Indian Premier League side Atletico Kolkata, sister club of former team Atletico Madrid, making 13 appearances and scoring twice. He was last in Australia only weeks ago after appearing for the Liverpool legends against the Legendroos at ANZ Stadium.
The Mariners are also expected to announce the signing of former Western Sydney Wanderer Youssouf Hersi in the coming days.
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