Newcastle Jets have signed Greek striker Nikos Vergos for the next two seasons, adding a 30-year-old forward who arrives after two years with Melbourne Victory. The club confirmed the deal this evening as it looks to strengthen for the season ahead and its Asian campaign.
Vergos scored 17 goals in 60 appearances for Melbourne Victory, giving Newcastle a proven attacker with a record in Australia and a background that also includes spells with Panathinaikos, Olympiacos and Real Madrid Castilla. The move gives the Jets another option up front as they prepare for a season that includes the chance to compete in the AFC Champions League.
Coach Mark Milligan said Vergos brings experience and quality to the squad, describing him as extremely driven and very ambitious. He said that mindset will be important as Newcastle chase success in the league and in Asia, and added that the striker is expected to work hard and give the club’s supporters plenty to enjoy.
Vergos said he is incredibly excited to begin this new chapter with Newcastle Jets. He said he felt the club’s ambition, professionalism and strong mentality from the first moment, and that speaking with the coach and staff convinced him it is a team with a very bright future.
He said playing in the AFC Champions League and competing for success was a major motivation in the move. Vergos added that he cannot wait to get started, meet the fans and give everything he has for the club, while hoping to achieve something special with the coach and his staff this season.
The signing gives Newcastle a forward who has already shown he can score in Australia and who has experience in Greek football and with Real Madrid Castilla. For the Jets, the arrival arrives at a moment when the club is trying to turn ambition into results on two fronts, at home and in Asia.
The real test now is whether Vergos can carry his Melbourne scoring touch into a Newcastle side that is looking for a sharper edge in front of goal. The club has made its move; the next answer will come on the field.
