Many Newcastle Jets fans may not be familiar with new striker Beka Mikeltadze, but he’s determined to change that with a season based around gold.
Mikeltadze comes to us from Xanthi FC in Greece where he spent time playing with Matt Jurman and under Head Coach, Arthur Diles, but has also spent time playing for Russian heavyweight, Rubin Kazan.
The 23-year-old Georgian international will be the first man from his home country to ever play in the A-League, but he made clear that it’s only an achievement if he captures success.
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“I know I am the first Georgian player to play in the league, but it’s only good if I win something here,” Mikeltadze said.
“Australia is good, it’s a very nice country, but I didn’t fly 20 hours just to enjoy it. I flew here to win something – the league or the Cup. This is my motivation.”
Whilst playing in his nation’s league, a young teenage Beka, proved deadly in front of goal scoring 16 goals to finish second on the Golden Boot tally, and also collected eight assists.
He’s focused on showcasing that same form when he pulls on a Jets jersey to help the side challenge for a high finish.
When asked what his ambitions were for the team’s season, he said; “Minimum, top three.”
“These is not just my hopes, but it’s the same for the team.”
One of the reasons the young forward is so excited for the upcoming season, is the style of play new Manager, Arthur Papas, has brought into the squad.
While Beka isn’t certain on where he will feature in the side, he believes the tactics suit him perfectly.
“I am a striker,” he said, “but if the coach says, ‘Beka, can you play left or right?’ No problem.
“[The style of play] is very aggressive football. I like it.”
While it is still unknown as to who will start in the striker position come Round One against the Mariners, you can be sure that Mikeltadze will be doing everything he can to he fill that #9 role.
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