The Wellington Phoenix have signed well travelled former Serbian international striker Andrija Kaludjerović on a one year deal for the upcoming A-League season.
The 30-year-old striker has previously played in the A-League for Brisbane but also played in Switzerland, China, Spain, Lithuania and most recently in Thailand.
He cut short his contract in Thailand to join the Phoenix.
Phoenix coach Darije Kalezić said Kaludjerovic has plenty of experience from playing football in a variety of different competitions.
New Phoenix striker Andrija Kaludjerović. Photo: RNZ: Barry Guy
"Andrija terminated his contract in Thailand to join us. He really wants to be part of our team because he strongly believes in himself and our success."
"He also has a good sense of [the A-League] after playing here before, which gives him a good view of the strength of the league, his possibilities and our expectations," he said.
Kaludjerovic had a brief period with Brisbane in 2015 when he joined the club mid-season however his contract wasn't extended when new John Aloisi took charge later in the year.
Kalezic said Kaludjerovic is "a typical striker who is always looking to make goals, but also, a player who is able to play with his back to the goal of the opponent, keep the ball and play attractive combination football."
Darije Kalezić and Rado Vidosic (left) Photo: Photosport
Kaludjerović is looking foward to returning to the A-League.
"In Lithuania I had a very good period, in six months I won the cup, the league, scored many goals. A good financial offer came [to go to Thailand] but to look back it was not a good choice for me."
"Now when Wellington called me, I didn't have any doubts. I was here before with Brisbane and I really liked the league - it's not as technical as playing in Spain or Switzerland but ever year it is growing, getting better and better - I just want to play good football."
"[Darije] he is expecting goals. He knows that I can do this, he has studied my game, knows what to expect so I hope to deliver."
"I played against Wellington once and I scored. Now I hope fans forgive me if I score next time for Wellington!"
Kaludjerović has arrived in New Zealand to meet the playing squad but will return to Serbia shortly for the birth of his third son.
His wife and three children will then join him in Wellington.
