Tara Murray
Alessandro Diamanti has been named Western United captain for a third straight season.
Diamanti, who has captained the club since it came into the competition, will be supported by Josh Risdon who will step into the vice-captain position.
Coach John Aloisi made the call along with his coaching staff during pre-season, praising the leadership of both players and the role they play in the squad.
“Alessandro and Josh have been massive in pre-season, helping me settle in and supporting the staff and all the players during the off-season,” he said.
“They’ve taken on what we want to do and they’re both driving the whole group forwards. Their voice within the group has been huge and will continue to be all season.
“Dia has been the captain obviously for two years, so he was a no-brainer to keep in that position. Josh has shown everything you want from a leadership perspective on and off the training pitch, and he is fully deserving of this and will be brilliant for us in the role.”
Risdon said he was extremely proud to take on the vice-captain role.
“It’s not something early on in my career I thought I would take up such a role but as I’m getting older, I feel like I can contribute to the team in a leadership role by leading by example. I feel like that’s my style how we can go about it, especially with the team we’ve got – we’ve got a really good bunch of lads and to be a leader in this group is really exciting.
“The club is heading towards a big future in the next few years and to be named vice captain is very exciting. I’m extremely happy and honoured to take on this role.”
