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O’Neill confirms Melbourne satisfy league requirements [Thu Aug 25th, 2005]
With the Hyundai A-League kickoff now just three days away, Melbourne Victory received a timely boost with the confirmation from Football Australia that they have now satisfied all criteria and have been given a five-year exclusive licence for the region.
Ahead of their first match against Sydney FC at Aussie Stadium on Sunday, Melbourne have now been confirmed as having the appropriate financial capital and management structure in place to satisfy the Hyundai A-League criteria.
"We were confident we would reach this point and I'm delighted with the ownership structure that is now in place at Melbourne Victory," said FFA CEO John O'Neill.
"With the start of the season only days away, the long-term future of Melbourne Victory is now assured and we look forward to them continuing to be an integral part of the Hyundai A-League.
"I'd like to pay tribute to the work of Victory Chairman Geoff Lord and his team and also to the Premier Steve Bracks and his government, who have given the club tremendous support."
Melbourne Victory Chairman, Geoff Lord, said “I am delighted that everything is now completed and I’m looking forward to the futureâ€.
On the park, the team was today put through its final paces by coach Ernie Merrick before traveling to Sydney for their opening Hyundai A-League clash against Sydney FC.
The only change to the squad is the inclusion of 19-year-old central defender Adrian Leijer in place of the suspended Mark Byrnes.
“I’m definitely excited to be included in the squad,†Leijer said. “Everyone’s eager in anticipation for Sunday’s match. It’s been a long time coming, now it’s finally here. This is the start of something exciting for Australian football.â€
The Australian under-20 could be right in the thick of the action, potentially lining up against Sydney FC marquee player Dwight Yorke.
“Dwight Yorke is a very exciting player who I’ve idolised since I was young.†Leijer said. “It would be a great challenge and a great experience to play against him in the Hyundai A-League.â€
The strapping Jan-Juc youngster epitomises the future of the game, and he feels a great sense of pride, having secured a Hyundai A-League contract ahead of many older and more experienced players.
“With Melbourne Victory being a such a big club, there’s a real sense of honour in being offered a contract, but I just hope to do my best for the Melbourne fans throughout the season.â€
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