Socceroo hoping to revive career in Adelaide

One-time Socceroo Ben Folami hopes to revive his career with Adelaide United after joining the Reds on a four-year deal from Melbourne Victory.

Unwanted by new Victory coach Patrick Kisnorbo despite having a year left on his contract with the Melbourne club, Folami said he still had plenty to “offer”.

“I am excited to be starting a new chapter in my career with Adelaide United,” the 25-year-old attacking weapon said.

“I have a lot to offer and believe that this club provides the ideal environment for me to continue developing.

“The direction the club is taking is something I am keen to be a part of, and I look forward to contributing to the team’s success.”

Having not been used in the Australia Cup this year by the Victory, Folami is eligible to play for Reds against his former club in Saturday night’s semi-final at AAMI Park.

However, Adelaide coach Carl Veart said he would resist the temptation to use Folami this weekend as he continued to recover from a lower leg injury.

“He’ll be ready for the start of the A-League season next month,” Veart said.

“He fits the style that we want to play. He likes to take on players and is very good in one-on-one situations.”

Sydney-born Folami’s career has included a sole appearance for the Socceroos in March, 2022 against Japan, as well as spells in England with Ipswich Town and Stevenage.

The Reds are confident they can help Folami reach his “full potential” and aid him in his bid to eventually return overseas.

Adelaide’s technical director Ernest Faber said Folami was an “outstanding addition” to the club.

“Securing a player of his calibre is a testament to the club’s growth and ambition,” Faber said.

“We are now in a position to attract players of Ben’s quality, who are eager to realise their full potential with us.

“His versatility and experience will strengthen our attacking options moving forward.”

Reds head of football Marius Zanin said: “We have been monitoring Ben for some time, and we are very pleased with what he will bring to the squad.

“He is quick, intelligent, and capable of playing across the front line, which will provide us with a range of tactical options.

“His speed and creativity will pose a significant threat on both flanks, and we are excited to see him in action.”

Meanwhile, the Reds have failed in their bid to bring defender Alexandar Popovic back to the club on loan from South Korean outfit Gwangju.

Instead, 22-year-old Popovic is set to join Sydney FC on loan.