Depicting a triumphant homecoming, former Socceroo Bernie Ibini is poised to return to the A-League, accepting an invitation from Brisbane Roar. The 31-year-old striker has recently become a free agent, following the mutually agreed termination of his contract with Lion City Sailors, his Singapore Premier League team, a month prior.
Ibini, known for his attacking prowess, last graced the A-League fields for the Western Sydney Wanderers in May of the previous year. His extensive experience in the league counts 177 appearances which were marked by 37 successful strikes on goal.
The player’s history with the A-League extends to include the Newcastle Jets, Sydney FC, and the Central Coast Mariners, where he contributed significantly to the latter’s winning season of 2012-13 with seven goals.
Other highlights of Ibini’s lengthy professional career of 13 years extend beyond Australian borders. He found success in South Korea, earning a championship with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in 2019. The former Socceroo, who was chosen to represent Australia twice under coach Ange Postecoglou in 2014, also had stints with Shanghai Dongya in China, Belgium’s Club Brugge, Major League Soccer’s Vancouver Whitecaps, and United Arab Emirates’ Emirates Club.
Pending a successful medical examination, Ibini is expected to sign with the Roar, making a valuable addition to Brisbane’s forward line with his adaptable play style. The Roar’s coach, Ross Aloisi will likely capitalize on Ibini’s ability to execute roles as either a winger or a centre-forward.
Further proving proactive, the Roar has ushered in defender Aaron Reardon from the recent NPL Queensland champions, Gold Coast Knights, who is embarking on his second stint with the Roar after making four A-League appearances for them in 2019.
In other developments, Adelaide United has brought onboard 30-year-old English midfielder Ryan Tunnicliffe. Ryan’s early days involved stints with Manchester United, as well as Fulham in the English Premier League. His latest tenure involved two seasons with Portsmouth, a third-tier English club. Tunnicliffe has expressed enthusiasm for the new challenge that Adelaide United offers after a lifetime of playing in England. Coach Carl Veart lauds Ryan’s tenacity and his perfect fit with the team’s style and the physical demands of the A-League.
