Glory legend Despotovski named Perth W-League coach

Perth Glory has announced that former striker and Johnny Warren Medalist Bobby Despotovski will be its new W-League coach, replacing Jamie Harnwell in the role.

Bobby Despotovski during his playing days with Perth Glory. (Getty) Source: Getty Images Asia Pacific

Despotovski was delighted to be given the opportunity to coach on the national stage, especially for a club he has adored since his playing days.

"I’ve had great times at Perth Glory, from scoring goals to winning trophies, now I’m determined for silverware as a coach," he said.

"I know we have the passion and determination to claim the highest honour in Australian women's football.

"I’d also like to acknowledge my predecessor and former team-mate Jamie Harnwell who led the Women's team to the grand final last season. He had a stellar season and achieved a lot. Hopefully this year, we can go one step further."

Despotovski will be joined by recently retired Matildas midfielder Collette McCallum, who has been named assistant coach.

McCallum played 50 W-League games for the Glory Women and made 81 appearances for Australia, scoring 11 goals for the Matildas.

"I'm thankful to still be involved with the team and I am looking forward to learning as much as I can from Bobby and Kenny (Lowe)," she said.

Despotovksi played 241 games for Perth Glory between 1996 and 2007 and is the club’s all-time leading goal scorer (113 goals).

The 44 year old is no stranger to success. He won two back-to-back National Soccer League championships in 2003 and 2004, while in 2005-2006 he was awarded the Johnny Warren medal and took out the Golden Boot in the same year.