Dutch international and former Ajax captain Siem de Jong will play for Sydney FC in the upcoming A-League season after signing a loan deal on Thursday.
The 29-year-old made over 180 appearances for Ajax over two spells, scoring 61 goals, winning four championship titles and a Dutch Cup.
The attacking midfielder, who also had a stint at English side Newcastle, said he can’t wait to get started.
“I see a lot of similarities between Sydney FC and Ajax, they’re both leaders in their league with a reputation for silverware and I want to uphold that here,” he said.
“I want nothing more than success and I’ll help the squad in any way to achieve our goals of winning all of the trophies we compete for this season.”
His arrival comes a week after Sydney further bolstered their attacking stocks by enticing former Reading striker Adam le Fondre on a multi-year deal.
The Englishman, known as Alfie, scored 41 goals in 110 appearances for the Royals across the Premier League and Championship before moving to Bolton.
“You don’t become captain of Ajax without possessing all the necessary qualities for that job and I believe he can bring those qualities to Sydney FC, and help guide our squad this year,” said Sydney coach Steve Corica of De Jong.
“This is a new challenge for Siem, I’m confident it is one he can embrace, and I’m sure he’ll slot in seamlessly.”
Sydney kick off their A-League season away to Adelaide United on October 19.
Source: AFP
