Covic extends Western Sydney stay

Western Sydney goalkeeper Ante Covic has signed on with the Wanderers for another season.

In the club’s inaugural season, the 37-year-old has backed up the league’s equal meanest defence, conceding just 10 goals in 13 games.

Covic, who started his career at Marconi and had stints in Sweden and Greece before returning to the A-League, said the decision to sign a new deal was not a difficult one to make.

“I am happy with committing to another year here and I think the whole setup that has occurred here at the Wanderers is fantastic, from the supporters to the players to the coaches,” Covic said.

“It is such a natural thing for me to sign here and I am still enjoying playing football.”

The former Newcastle Jets and Melbourne Victory shot-stopper admitted the loyalty and passion of the Wanderers’ fans at such an early stage had impressed him immensely, and he had nothing but good words to say about the club’s vision.

“The whole Wanderers setup has impressed me immensely,” Covic said.

“To be playing at Parramatta Stadium in front of a crowd that is as passionate as the one we have with a coach that has a clear vision and a bunch of players that are fantastic to be around.

“There is not just one thing that stands out. It is a credit to the organisation that is the Wanderers and what it has brought and it has made my decision a lot easier to stay here.”

Wanderers coach Tony Popovic said he was grateful to have the ‘outstanding’ ‘keeper and leader around for at least another season.

“He is an outstanding goalkeeper and leader at the football club and he has had a great season so far,” Popovic said.

“We don’t see any reason why he can’t play at this level for at least another season.”