Kurto coup as Pole vaults to Western United

Western United have landed the goalkeeper they believe to be the best in the A-League, with Wellington Phoenix’s accomplished shot-stopper Filip Kurto agreeing to join the fledgling franchise.

Kurto

Filip Kurto in action for the Wellington Phoenix Source: Getty Images

The A-League newbies were first linked with the 27-year-old former Polish Under-21 international earlier this month, and have bagged their target on a multi-year deal.

Kurto arrived in Wellington on a one-year contract from Dutch outfit Roda JC Kerkrade last July.

He has been a key factor as Mark Rudan’s fourth-placed side have all but locked in a play-off spot.

Kurto will make his 21st appearance of the season on Saturday night, as Wellington seek to inflict serious damage on the flickering semi-final hopes of the visiting Newcastle Jets.

He leads the competition for saves this season with 79, five ahead Central Coast’s Ben Kennedy.

It’s likely he will remain under the tutelage of Rudan next season, with the Phoenix coach expected to take the reins at Western United who, to date, have announced eight signings.

They are believed to have at least another four signed and sealed, with the impending arrival of Kurto a coup for the ambitious newcomers.

He will join the likes of marquee Panagiotis Kone, defenders Josh Risdon, Connor Chapman, Aaron Calver and Dylan Pierias; Olyroos midfielder Sebastian Pasquali, rookie Adelaide striker Apostolos Stamatelopoulos and NPL capture Valentino Yuel.

John Anastasiadis and John Hutchinson have been appointed as the franchise’s assistant coaches, with Rudan yet to be officially announced.

The club were contacted for comment by The World Game.


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2 min read
Published 30 March 2019 5:39pm
By Dave Lewis

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