Newcastle Jets are pleased to announce the retention of experienced defender Daniel Mullen for the next two Hyundai A-League campaigns.
Mullen — who linked with the Jets in January this year from Western Sydney Wanderers — has been a mainstay of the Newcastle backline throughout the second half of Hyundai A-League season 10, contributing strongly to the improved performances Phil Stubbins’ men have shown over the past few months.
Able to play in central defence or at right back, Mullen — who won the 2014 AFC Champions League during his time with the Wanderers — is the third outstanding defender to commit his playing future to the Jets in recent months following the signings of Nigel Boogaard and former South Korean youth international Lee Ki-je.
The former Dalian Aerbin man is viewed by the Club as another key cog in what is shaping up as a formidable defensive unit for the side from Hunter Stadium in coming seasons. Â
“It’s exciting for me,” Mullen said of his deal to remain with the Jets. “It’s a place that I see myself taking my personal game to the next level, but I also see it as an opportunity to make this Club a successful one.”
“We have great support from the fans, and are putting structures in place so that we can further things here and create success.”
Mullen added that he is more than happy with the direction the Club is going in under the current management and coaching staff.
“If I wasn’t happy with the current coaching personnel and structure then I wouldn’t have signed, so that speaks for itself,” he said. “I am confident with the team that they are putting together, and feel we can be a real threat next season.”
Interestingly, Mullen crossed paths with incoming Jets defender Boogaard in South Australia between 2010 and 2012. The duo were teammates at Adelaide United, and spent plenty of time playing together for the men from the city of churches.Â
Mullen said he can’t wait to link with Boogaard for the Jets.
“I played with Nigel for a couple of years at Adelaide and he is part of the reason why I was eager to stay,” he said. “His [Boogaard’s] signing shows the positive mindset of the Club and coaching staff. Nigel is a leader, and a born winner.”
Newcastle Jets Head Coach Phil Stubbins is delighted to have finalised Mullen’s stay at the Club.
“It’s very important that we sign players that fit into what we are trying to build,” Stubbins said. “Daniel has fitted into Newcastle the city, and Newcastle the football club like a hand in a glove.”
“He [Mullen] has brought some real leadership to the team already, and we’re confident that he will only improve in time.”
“I worked with both Daniel and Nigel at Adelaide and they are good, confident, humble, team focussed people.”
“Daniel is another fantastic signing for the Newcastle Jets,” Stubbins concluded.
