Roar lures German Broich

The 29-year-old signed a multi-year deal and Roar coach Ange Postecoglou was delighted his long pursuit of Broich came to a successful conclusion.

"I went to Europe looking for a player who can play as an attacking midfielder but can also contend with the physical demands of the league," he said.

"I went with the intention of signing Thomas but it was a bit of a challenge as he's still only 29 and can probably get another Bundesliga club quite easily.

"It took four or five weeks of negotiations but in the end we were able to get him and I was delighted because I think he is exactly the player we need.

"I'm sure he will make a major impact in the A-league and he is definitely one of our key signings for the year."

Broich, a former Germany Under-21 player, enjoyed stints at FC Nurnberg, Borussia Monchengladbach and FC Koln during 10 years in his homeland.

"You get nearly a hundred recommendations a day and when I went to Europe I saw quite a few players and made all the enquiries," added Postecoglou.

"But with Thomas, everywhere I looked and people I asked, it was a pretty consistent message that he's a very good player and will do very well in the A-league.

"I did as many checks as I can, but at the end of it he ticked all of the boxes in terms of what I'm looking for and what I think the team needs."