Mariners snare English midfielder

Montgomery will arrive at Central Coast from UK partner club Sheffield United after Blades chairman and Mariners director Kevin McCabe played an instrumental role in endorsing the Mariners club and culture to the player.

Montgomery, 30, is a Sheffield United legend having progressed through the club’s youth ranks before making over 400 competitive appearances for Sheffield’s first team.

Montgomery’s time with the Blades saw him feature in the Barclays Premier League as well as extensively in England’s tough and competitive second tier, currently known as the championship.

Mariners coach Graham Arnold said he believes the Englishman is the perfect addition to his squad.

“All my contacts in the UK can’t speak highly enough of Nick Montgomery,” Arnold said.

“He is a winner and a leader and having lost Alex Wilkinson and Matt Simon recently, I knew it was crucial that we brought in a player who can influence not only a game, but the group as well.

“Nick’s pedigree speaks for itself and at 30 some of his strongest years of football are still in front of him. He is fit having undergone pre-season with Sheffield United and we look forward to him arriving on the Central Coast.”

Montgomery told United’s official website he is looking forward to commencing with Central Coast.

"There were numerous options available," he said.

"I've turned down other offers and there was an enquiry from the MLS in America but both (wife) Josie and I have friends in Australia and this is a chance of a lifetime, amazing opportunity to experience something new."