The Newcastle Jets have signed defender Sam Gallagher for the 2014/15 Hyundai A-League season.
Gallagher joins the Jets from Vietnamese Club Hanoi T&T, where he made 11 appearances during the 2014 V-League season, scoring two goals.
The 23-year-old graduated from the youth team of Sydney FC before having stints at Hyundai A-League Clubs Central Coast Mariners and Melbourne Victory.
Gallagher also represented Australia at U-20 level on 18 occasions, playing alongside current Jets teammates Mark Birighitti and Ben Kantarovski at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2011.
“I always had it in my mind that if had the chance to play in Australia again I’d look to try and take it, so when the opportunity to trial with Newcastle came up I jumped at the chance.” Gallagher said.
“Thankfully the trial went well and I was able to get a contract. I’m excited to be a Jets player and really looking forward to getting a good pre-season under my belt and giving everything I can for the Club.
“I’m lucky enough to know a few of the boys from previous experiences and the rest of the squad has been really good to me since I came in on trial, so it’s made the transition nice and easy.”
Jets head coach Phil Stubbins said the signing of Gallagher gave Newcastle added depth across the backline.
“Sam brings a real balance to the squad as a player who can fill the role of left stopper or left fullback,” Stubbins said.
“I think he’s got a lot of confidence from the experience he’s had in Asia and he’s learnt a hell of a lot from his time over there as well.
“He’s a good kid who is hungry for success and we’re pleased to have him in Newcastle.”
