Newcastle Jets are pleased to announce that exciting attacking midfielder Enver Alivodić has committed the next year of his playing career to the Club.
Alivodic, 30, linked with the Jets in February 2015 having last featured for Vojvodina in the Serbian SuperLiga.
The former Novi Pazar, BSK Borča and Čukarički Stankom man made his Jets debut in an F3 Derby draw against Central Coast Mariners in late February, and went on to feature in each of the Club’s Hyundai A-League matches thereafter.
Indeed, Alivodić helped add a cutting edge to Newcastle’s play towards the tail of the team’s campaign, scoring two goals and providing consistent moments of attacking verve.
Newcastle Jets Head Coach Phil Stubbins said that he is pleased to have retained the services of the diminutive, yet power-packed player, and feels that like South Korean recruit Lee Ki-je, Alivodić has plenty more to offer.
“We’re ecstatic to have reached an agreement with Enver, who I believe most people who follow the Hyundai A-League would say has made an impressive impact on the competition,” Stubbins said.
“When Enver arrived at the club, he hadn’t played a lot of football and was somewhat underdone in terms of his conditioning.
“But he adapted quickly and after a few weeks of match play really began to demonstrate what he can offer the club and team.
“Aside from his football ability, everyone at the Jets has been impressed with Enver’s attitude and approach, and he certainly displayed a clear desire to remain in Newcastle which is a great testament to the city and club,” he said.
Alivodic said that he’s pleased to have pledged his future to the Jets.
“I think we will show more next season,” Alivodic said. “We were not happy to be last this season. In the final five games we showed that we can be better.”
Alivodic feels he will benefit from a full pre-season in Australia.
“It will be much better for my body and health,” the Serbian said of spending months preparing with the team.
Crucially, Alivodic has kept his wife happy by prolonging his stay in the Hunter.
“Like me, it is the first time in Australia for my wife,” he said. “She is happy to stay which is the most important thing.”
