Roar striker intent on showing quality against former club
Brisbane Roar forward Justin Vidic insists he has nothing to prove to his former team Newcastle Jets, but remains determined to demonstrate his quality after leaving the club last season.
Released by the Jets following a modest record of one goal in 13 A-League matches, Vidic will face his old side this Sunday. During his two years with Newcastle, most of his appearances came off the bench. When new coach Mark Milligan replaced Robbie Stanton, the 21-year-old was not offered a renewed contract.
Facing a potential stall in his professional career, Vidic accepted an opportunity to trial with Brisbane. His determined approach earned him a two-year contract with the Roar. Under coach Michael Valkanis, Vidic’s strong work ethic and traditional style blend well with the Queensland club’s physical and straightforward strategy.
“These things happen for a reason,” said Vidic ahead of the Roar-Jets game at Sunshine Coast Stadium. “I’m sure I’ll show my quality. I don’t think I have anything to prove to them. They know what I’m capable of, and there are lots of people at the club that I still speak to and that I’m still close to. They know my potential and I want to show them that on Sunday.”
Vidic has started in two of Brisbane’s three games so far this season, finding the net in the Roar’s 2-1 defeat to Wellington last month.
Author’s summary: Young striker Justin Vidic, now with Brisbane Roar, seeks to prove his value through performance, not rivalry, as he faces his former team Newcastle Jets.