JETS coach Arthur Papas sees no reason why Michael Weier can't take the step up to A-League level after signing the towering goalkeeper for the season ahead.
Weier, who stands 196 centimetres tall, has earned a one-year deal with Newcastle after impressing during a pre-season train-and-trial stint.
The 24-year-old started his career with Brisbane Strikers before moving to Hume City, where he established himself as one of the standout glovemen in the Victorian National Premier League.
He is yet to play at A-League level but Papas expects he will provide incumbent Jack Duncan and Young Socceroos representative Noah James with stiff competition.
"Michael's coming in to fight for the No.1 spot, to be honest," Papas said.
"The way I look at it is that all our players have equal opportunity to play, if they're willing to put in the work.
"He's someone that has really had an interesting journey, moving from Queensland to Victoria and becoming the outstanding goalkeeper in the Victorian NPL.
"He's a huge presence - six-foot five - and he's also very good with his feet.
"He comes with really good recommendations and he's impressed everyone with the way he's gone about it, so he deserves an opportunity to come in and stake a claim. And then it's up to him, like everyone else."
He deserves an opportunity to come in and stake a claim.
ARTHUR PAPAS
James, who played one A-League game for Newcastle in 2019-20, spent last season on loan with Western Sydney but did not feature in their first team. Duncan, 28, has played 68 times in the A-League but spent 10 games on the bench last season deputising for Lewis Italiano, who has since returned to Perth.
Papas said goalkeepers "have to be ready to take their chance", especially in the A-League, given that there are no midweek cup competitions to provide opportunities for back-up players.
"That's probably the same message for everyone, anyway," he said.
"You've just always got to be ready, because opportunity came come when you least expect it."
Weier was delighted to have earned a shot at A-League level.
"It's such an amazing opportunity to represent a proud club like Newcastle Jets," he said.
"I'm excited to work hard alongside a great team whilst being surrounded by quality coaches and staff, and passionate supporters."
Weier is the latest in a long line of new Jets recruits.
Colombian midfielder Olivier Boumal has completed his quarantine stint and is expected to train with his new teammates on Friday.
