Glory’s Rapid Reaction to Goalkeeper Crisis Boosts Team Resilience

Perth Glory has boosted its resilience during a goalkeeper crisis by signing former Western United goalkeeper Matt Sutton on a short-term deal. This move comes in response to an injury to their starting keeper, Mark Birighitti, who is now expected to undergo surgery for a knee issue.

Goalkeeper Crisis and Quick Response

Birighitti sustained the injury during a training session on Tuesday, putting him on the sidelines for approximately two months. He was set to start for Perth in their opening match against Wellington Phoenix at HBF Park on Saturday night.

Signing of Matt Sutton

Matt Sutton, who had been without a club since Western United entered conditional hibernation following last season, was quick to join the Glory. The 25-year-old keeper participated in all 29 matches for United last year before their financial troubles began.

Comments from Football Director

Stan Lazaridis, the football director for Perth Glory, expressed confidence in the signing. “We looked at the situation, knew that Matt was available and were able to get the signing done,” Lazaridis noted. He also wished a speedy recovery for Birighitti, nicknamed ‘Birraz’.

Training and Competition

Sutton is set to train with his new teammates, including former United players Rhys Bozinovski and Charbel Shamoon, for the first time on Thursday. He will compete with Cameron Cook, who is 24 years old, for the starting position in the first game of the season.

Additional Team Updates

Perth Glory’s preparations are further complicated by the absence of midfielder Tom Lawrence. He has yet to receive visa clearance and will not be on the field this weekend. Additionally, ex-Phoenix player Sam Sutton is anticipated to miss the first month of the season due to a quad injury sustained in a trial match against Western Sydney Wanderers.

Conclusion

Perth Glory’s swift action to secure Matt Sutton amid the goalkeeper crisis highlights their determination to maintain competitiveness in the A-League. As the team prepares for the new season, resilience will be key in overcoming these initial challenges.