Heart lands Liberia midfielder Gerhardt

Gerhardt helped Zeljeznicar to the league and cup double last season, and Heart coach John Aloisi believes the 26-year-old will be a hit in the A-League.

"Patrick will bring a lot to the club. Defensive midfield is the position we see him most suited to, but he's versatile. He can win the ball, but he can also play the ball out of the back," Aloisi said.

"He played in Bosnia last year and won the double, the league and the cup, so he brings a winning mentality. He's also a national team player with Liberia, so he's got a lot of experience for a young person.

"We've had good feedback from the people we know in Europe, and they've said not only is he a good player, but a good person, and that's an important factor for our club."

Gerhardt, who has two caps for Liberia, started his career at Swiss side Young Boys and says he is 'confident' he will be happy in Melbourne.

"I had a good experience in Bosnia, we had a great team and enjoyed a fantastic season, losing only a couple of games, but I'm excited by the challenge ahead in Australia," he said.