Perth Glory’s squad has been boosted by the arrival of experienced defender Hayden Foxe who has signed for the next two seasons with the club.

The 30 year old Australian has played 14 matches with the Socceroos and spent more than a decade playing internationally including stints in Japan, Holland, and in England with West Ham, Portsmouth and Leeds United.

“The decision for me to come back to Australia was an easy one really, I’m happy to be with Perth Glory and looking forward to an opportunity of working with Coach Ron Smith,” Foxe said.

Perth Glory coach Ron Smith and defender Hayden Foxe
Foxe and Smith first met at the Australian Institute of Sport some 13 years ago and have also worked together in the national team programme.

“I’ve known Ron for a long time and he is a very astute coach that can definitely bring the best out of his players so I was more than happy to come and play football here on the west coast,” Foxe said.

Perth Glory Head Coach Ron Smith said he is delighted to add a player of Foxe’s experience and leadership and is confident he will have a big impact on the league this season.

“Hayden is a top quality player who has enjoyed a long career at the elite level in Europe and we’re delighted to welcome him back to Australia and in particular to Perth Glory,” Smith said.

“He is fit and eager to play for Perth and will bring a lot of experience to our relatively young side.

Despite being born and bred in Australia Foxe hasn’t ever played professionally in the country, after being whisked overseas as a youngster but is eager to experience the Hyundai A-League with Perth Glory.

“I’d like to think that I can play another six or seven years,” Foxe said.

“The season isn’t that long here with 21 regular season matches compared to about 50 matches in Europe. I’m feeling good, I don’t have any injury concerns, and if I look after myself right then there is no reason I can’t play for while to come.

“There is a lot to look forward to at the Glory, the club has recruited well and I’m confident that we can be a strong contender this season,” said Foxe.

The big defender only arrived in Perth from London on Monday evening but could be brought straight into the squad for the club’s opening pre-season cup match against Newcastle on Saturday 14 July in Port Macquarie.

“We’ll see how Hayden pulls up in the next couple of days and make a decision from there,” Smith said.

“He’d obviously be a big inclusion for us however we won’t rush him in if he’s not fully ready to go. He’s feeling pretty good after the long flight and is keen to get out onto the pitch as soon as possible,” Smith added.

Perth currently has 21* contracted players for the 2007/08 season.

* including goal keeper Tommi Tomich who is on an injury replacement contract for Jason Petkovic

PROFILE

Hayden Foxe

Born: 23/06/1977 (30 yrs)
Playing Career: Ajax Amsterdam 1995-97 (0 apps), Arminia Bielefeld 1997-98 (1 app), Sanfrecce Hiroshima 1998-99 (37 apps, 5 gls), KV Mechelen 2000-2001 (4 apps), West Ham United 2000-2002 (11 apps), Portsmouth 2002-2005 (42 apps, 2 gls), Leeds United 2006-2007 (18 apps, 1 goal)

Representative Honours: Australian Olympic Squad 1996 & 2000, Australian Senior Team ‘Socceroos’ (14 apps, 2 gls)