More midfield presence for Phoenix
22/07/2008 8:03 AM
All Whites defender David Mulligan has been added to the burgeoning midfield and defensive arsenal for the Wellington Phoenix.
Mulligan, 26, has signed a two-year deal with the club after his career in England which saw him play two seasons with Scunthorpe in the championship.
With Andrew Durante and Jon McKain already on board, Mulligan's arrival adds further strength and with his capacity to play either left or right back, his versatility means he can also fill a place in the midfield.
Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said the club had been watching Mulligan for some time.
"We've been discussing options with David for a few months and the opportunity came about last week and we agreed terms to a two-year contract," he said.
"He offers us a lot of versatility."
Pignata said that didn't mean the club was concerned about its resources, rather it was looking at providing cover.
"One of the things we want this year is to have back-up [in all positions] and have depth in our squad. David certainly adds that depth in a number of areas," he said.
Mulligan had moved to Port Vale but that hadn't worked out and the Hyundai A-League had proved attractive.
"It just goes to show that, instead of playing in the lower leagues in the UK, you can have a great career in the A-League," he said.
Mulligan will undergo a pre-season fitness assessment at the club on Monday.