Wanderers confirm signing of Socceroos defender Jurman

Western Sydney Wanderers have confirmed the signing of Socceroos defender Matthew Jurman on a one-year deal.

Matt Jurman in 2016, then with Sydney FC, gets in an argument with then Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper Liam Reddy. Source: Getty Images

As first reported by The World Game on August 23 the signing will add further spice to the local derby, with Jurman having spent six seasons at arch-rivals Sydney FC. 

The 29-year-old can expect to face his old side at Bankwest Stadium on October 26. 

Jurman won the title twice with the Sky Blues, first in 2010 and then later in 2017, and also once with Brisbane Roar in 2012. 

The seven-time international said, in a statement released by the Wanderers, that he was excited to play in front of his family and friends. 

“Having a support base around me again is going to be exciting – I have a lot of family and friends in Western Sydney so it is exciting to be back and to play in front of them for the Wanderers," said Jurman. 

“I spoke with Markus (Babbel) many times and those conversations showed that he wanted me at the club, how I fit into his plans and how he wants me to play. 

“I want to win and I’m hoping that the team that Markus has put together this season is one that can do well and get to the top.

For the past three years, Jurman has been playing in South Korea for Suwon Bluewings and in Saudi Arabia for Al-Ittihad.

“The past three years overseas has made me a lot stronger, not having familiar surroundings makes you mentally stronger and I’ve had some great experiences and come back a better player."