Phoenix swoops for North

The 28-year-old agreed a one-year deal and is expected to line-up in the heart of defence with Wellington captain Andrew Durante, to re-establish the A-League Championship winning partnership the duo formed at Newcastle Jets in 2008.

“Jade’s a proven performer at elite level, with almost 100 appearances in the Hyundai A-League," Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert said.

"He was outstanding for the Jets alongside Dura when they won the title a couple of seasons back and he’ll fit in really well with the group we have here."

North has played 28 times for Australia at senior level and is seen as a perfect replacement for departed McKain, who joined Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr at the end of last season.

“Not only does he have a wealth of experience but he also brings significant leadership qualities to the club, having captained the Jets, and he’s a great replacement for Jon McKain.”

“We’re fortunate in that we’ve retained the core of the squad from last season’s great campaign and that we’ve been able to add some real talent and quality in key areas of the pitch from front the back," he said.

"There’s plenty of cause for optimism about our chances this season and we’re looking forward to getting things under way.”