Perth Glory have given their defensive stocks a much-needed boost with the signing of fringe Socceroo James Meredith for the upcoming A-League season.
Meredith made 82 appearances for English Championship side Millwall between 2017 and 2019, and previously spent stints at York City (131 appearances) and Bradford City (181).
The 31-year-old was a Socceroos squad member at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and had been trialling with League One side Portsmouth in recent weeks.
- Jets marquee Hoolahan sidelined until 2020
- Melbourne Victory sign Albania international Basha
- Coaches union critical of FFA's management review
But when the two-cap Socceroo failed to win a deal there, Glory coach Tony Popovic convinced him to come to Perth.
"The boss sold it to me," Meredith said. "I really liked the way he talked about his plans for the future of the club and when I looked at the squad list, I know it's a strong group of players.
"We're looking to become champions. The club did so well to finish top last season, so we'll be aiming for that again and I can't wait to be a part of that campaign."
Glory's defensive stocks have been hit hard since their Grand Final loss to Sydney FC.
Jason Davidson and Scott Neville departed, while there's still no word on out-of-contract centre-back Matthew Spiranovic.
Dino Djulbic suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the Grand final and is no certainty to line up for Glory again.
Glory have signed Swiss defender Gregory Wuthrich and Osama Malik during the offseason.
Perth's season gets underway on Oct. 13 against Brisbane Roar at HBF Park.