Phoenix sign Socceroos defender Jade North

Versatile Socceroos defender Jade North has signed with the Wellington Phoenix for the new A-League season.

The signing of North is a coup for the Phoenix, with the 28-year-old set to resume a defensive partnership he established with current Phoenix captain Andrew Durante when both players led the Newcastle Jets to the A-League championship in 2008.

North has been capped 28 times for Australia at senior level and has represented his country at under-17, under-20 and under-23 level. North, who is seen by the Phoenix as a perfect replacement for departed compatriot Jon McKain, who has signed with Norwegian side Tromso.

Phoenix head coach Ricki Herbert was delighted to have North onboard.

"Jade's a proven performer at elite level, with almost 100 appearances in the A-League. He was outstanding for the Jets alongside Dura when they won the title a couple of seasons back and he'll fit in really well with the group we have here.

"Not only does he have a wealth of experience but he also brings significant leadership qualities to the club, having captained the Jets, and he's a great replacement for Jon McKain."

Herbert said the signing of North completed the bulk of recruitment for the Phoenix at this point, with the compulsory 20 players on the club's books. However, the Phoenix may look at adding prolific Indonesian striker Bambang Pamungkas to the roster following a trial stint with the squad beginning shortly.

"We're fortunate in that we've retained the core of the squad from last season's great campaign and that we've been able to add some real talent and quality in key areas of the pitch from front the back. There's plenty of cause for optimism about our chances this season and we're looking forward to getting things under way."

Phoenix chairman Terry Serepisos said the deal with North was a fillip for the Phoenix's championship aspirations.

"We took our time in terms of recruitment to make sure we got the right people for the right jobs. In Jade we're delighted to have a defender of such calibre and a player who has proven himself as a professional footballer.

"I'm extremely happy with how our squad has come together and the additions we've brought to the club will definitely make significant contributions this season."

- © Fairfax NZ News