The Wellington Phoenix men have bolstered their attacking options at the end of the A-League transfer window.
The Nix have added American Bryce Duke to their squad, swooping to sign him before the Isuzu UTE A-League registration deadline on Tuesday night.
Duke, 25, has joined the Wellington Phoenix on a one-year deal, with an option for a further season if certain criteria are fulfilled.
The attacking midfielder brings over 150 games of experience in Major League Soccer, spanning spells with San Diego FC, CF Montréal, Inter Miami, and Los Angeles FC.
Head coach Chris Greenacre is delighted to get a deal over the line in an important position.
“We’ve been looking for an attacking midfielder, and Bryce’s characteristics and where he’s playing were of interest immediately,” he said.
“Ultimately, he’s someone who wants to play football. We feel that he would be the perfect fit for how we want to build things here in Wellington.
“He’s technically very very good, he brings quite a lot of creativity, he’s got the ability to unlock a defense with his weight of pass. Those are the attributes that we want in our squad.”
Being battle-hardened from the MLS is a bonus.
“MLS is one of the top 20 leagues in the world, and he’s played over 150 games so he’s fit and ready to go.
“The level that he’s playing, it’s fair to say that the MLS has gone from strength to strength.
“To have a player who’s experienced those moments in a tough, competitive league will add loads of value to us and our squad.”
Bryce Duke is “stoked” to be joining the Wellington Phoenix.
“I’ve been putting this into the world for a while now, I’ve always wanted to experience Australia, the A-League, New Zealand,” he said.
“It happened pretty quick, literally in a 24-hour timespan.
“I couldn’t be more excited to experience a whole new world, to be part of the community, part of the team, and I’m just looking forward to giving my all for the badge.”
He instantly felt that he and the club were on the same page.
“We [Duke and Greenacre] spoke a couple of days ago and had an introductory call.
“He just told me how he wanted to play good-looking football, and how he really cares about the person rather than just the player. That’s something that resonates with me.
“We talked about the fans being our 12th man on and off the field, a crucial part of us winning games in the tough moments and in the good moments.”
And he knows how he wants to impact games for the Nix.
“I’m a technical player, Iniesta was my favourite player growing up, so I try to be that same kind of playing style.
“I work hard, my work ethic is there, especially trying to prove a point in games.
“Reading the game really well is my biggest attribute. I want to make plays and create chances.
“I want to come in and make a difference, play good footy and give fans a show.”
Duke has taken the number 7 shirt for the Wellington Phoenix and is the 21st men’s player contracted for the upcoming season.
Further squad announcements will be made over the coming weeks in the lead up to the men’s season opener against Melbourne Victory at Hnry Stadium on Sunday, October 18.
