Central Coast Mariners boss Nick Montgomery has tipped Nectarios Triantis to become a fan favourite at Sunderland - and says the move could give the young defender the platform to become part of the Australia team at the next World Cup. Sunderland have today confirmed that they have reached an agreement with the Australian side to sign the 20-year-old central defender, subject to international clearance and with the move able to be rubber-stamped once the transfer window reopens on Wednesday.
Montgomery has spoken of his sadness at losing U20 international Triantis but also said said the Mariners could not stand in his way when the Black Cats came calling. "Whilst we are obviously sad to be losing Nectar, we are so happy for him to be given this opportunity to join such a fantastic club like Sunderland," said Montgomery, whose side defeated Melbourne City in Sunday's A-League Grand Final.
"We would never hold him back from a move like this as he deserves it. Their fans are amazing and it's a massive club.
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"I have no doubt with time he will become a fan favourite for them. He is a wonderful young man who has developed rapidly in 12 months and played a vital role in helping us win the championship this season.
"When we lost Kye Rowles last season we needed someone to fill big shoes and Nectar certainly did that. It's now time for him to make us all proud and I have no doubt he can be representing the Socceroos at the next World Cup."
No fee has been confirmed by Sunderland, although the deal has been reported in Australia as being worth an initial £300,000. The length of contract that the 20-year-old will sign has also yet to be confirmed.
"The opportunity to join such a prestigious club is an honour and I'm really looking forward to heading to England and meeting my new teammates later this month," Triantis said of the move. "I'm ready for the challenge ahead and can't wait to get started.
"I would like to thank Nick Montgomery [Mariners manager] and the Central Coast Mariners for giving me the platform that led to this exciting next chapter in my life."
Triantis helped the Mariners win the A-League Grand Final in what has turned out to be his final game for the club. He played 26 times for the Mariners last season and was included in the A-League Team of the Season.
Triantis will play for his country's U23 side in the Maurice Revello Tournament, which is currently under way in Toulon, before heading to Wearside.
