20/08/2008 11:05 AM
Mark Bosnich has become Central Coast's maiden guest player, signing for seven rounds with the Mariners on Wednesday.
Bosnich has been on trial with the A-League club for the past month.
His impressive performance in the club's pre-season has won him the chance to resume his career in New South Wales.
The former Manchester United and Chelsea goalkeeper is available for selection this weekend when the Mariners host Sydney FC.
"We are delighted to today announce that one of the greats of Australian football is a Central Coast Mariner," Mariners executive chairman Lyall Gorman said on Wednesday.
"Since joining us as a triallist, Mark has proven to be an exceptional role model for not only the younger members of our playing group, but also our senior players.
"I have every confidence that by Mark continuing his stay with us in the capacity of a guest player, we have significantly boosted our aspirations on and off the pitch for the current season."
Gorman said Bosnich's dedication to rebuilding his football career had secured him the deal.
"We as a club have been simply amazed by the work ethic Mark has showcased since joining our playing group and cannot speak highly enough of the overwhelmingly positive effect his presence has had on our squad and our club," Gorman said.
"It has been a feature of our recruitment history to repatriate Australia's finest football exports."
"With Mark on board, we have continued this tradition and very happily and willingly provided a well deserved opportunity for one of the greats of the Australian game to contribute to this most exciting time for football in this country."
Bosnich, 36, has inked a deal that will coincide with Danny Vukovic's five-week ban following his clash with a referee during last season's grand final in February.
Vukovic, 23, is still eligible on Saturday meaning there is no guarantee Bosnich will face Sydney.