The Newcastle Jets have today signed goalkeeper Mark Birighitti and re-signed current keeper Ben Kennedy.
The Hunter Ports Newcastle Jets today confirm Adelaide United-s goalkeeper Mark Birighitti has signed a two-year contract and current goalkeeper Ben Kennedy has extended his contract for another season.
“This is a positive step in the right direction for next season-s rebuild,” CEO Robbie Middleby said.
“This is also in line with our strategy of developing and promoting youth at the Jets and continually planning for the future.
“It is fantastic to secure Mark, who is one of the most talented young goalkeepers in the A-League, as well as retain Ben, who is currently in career best form.
“These two goalkeepers will make one of the youngest combination’s in the league which is exciting for the future of the Jets.”
Birighitti is a current U23-s Olyroos player and an understudy to arguably the best keeper presently in the A-League in Adelaide-s captain Eugene Galekovic.
“I am excited to have signed with the Jets and look forward to starting at the Club after the Asian Champions League,” Birighitti said.
“Our negotiations have been very professional and I look forward to being a part of what Gary van Egmond is building at the Jets.
“I have been at Adelaide United for a number of years and I wish to thank them for all they have done.”
Kennedy, a local junior who has been at the Jets since 2006, is pleased to have re-signed.
“The Jets are a great Club and I am happy to have signed on for next season,” Kennedy said.
“To play for my hometown is a real privilege and there is nothing better than running out in front of my friends and family and the Newcastle crowd each week.”
Unfortunately this means goalkeeper Matthew Nash will be released at the end of this season.
“Matthew has been great for the Jets and he certainly has a future in the A-League,” Middleby added.
“We thank him for his contribution and we will assist in whatever way we can to help him find a new Club.”
