Wellington Phoenix goalkeeper Danny Vukovic will link up with A-League side Perth Glory for the 2011-2012 season after agreeing to terms on a three-year deal.
Vukovic, who made a name for himself during an impressive five-year stay at Central Coast Mariners, has played second fiddle to Phoenix gloveman Mark Paston for much of the season.
But Vukovic said the lack of opportunity wasn’t a factor in his move.
“Sitting on the bench, I said I wasn’t used to it, but it’s part of professional football,” Vukovic told the A-League website.
“You have to compete for a place everywhere. You can’t really expect to play week-in week-out. You have to be performing.
“It was more just an opportunity for a change and a chance to get back to Australia.
“They’ve offered me a good contract over there for three years.
“There’s a bit of security there and I can go over there and settle down with my girlfriend.
“I know the coach well. He’s a good coach and ready to do some good things with the club.
“It’s an exciting time for me when I go over there but I’m just focusing on Wellington Phoenix at the moment.”
Vukovic’s impending departure is a big blow for Wellington, who are set to be without Paston for up to six months after he fractured his knee.
Vukovic will return to the starting line-up for Saturday’s clash with Newcastle Jets at Westpac Stadium.
Should Perth goalkeeper Tando Velaphi remain at the Glory, coach Ian Ferguson will face a tough decision as to who to start in goal.
Buford Balony says: Tando will have to pull his finger out soon to be the No1 next year.
