Tara Murray
A-League games record holder Nikolai Topor-Stanley isn’t going anywhere, signing a new contract with champions Western United.
The centre-back has put pen to paper for a new contract, to see him commit to a second season in the green and black.
The experienced defender was an integral member of United’s defence in the 2021/22 season, playing 20 games, and wearing the captain’s armband on several occasions throughout the campaign.
He missed the grand final victory through injury.
Topor-Stanley said he feels right at home in the west and is thrilled to be able to go again for another season.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to still be able to play and compete at this level. I look forward to another year in Melbourne with my family and having the opportunity to wear the green and black,” he said.
“Winning the championship and titles are what we play for as players. It has been a whirlwind first year and we have enjoyed the success that winning has brought. The celebrations that followed will forever remain in my memory as it was shared with family and special people at this club.”
United coach John Aloisi said securing Topor-Stanley for next season was crucial to his plans.
“Nikolai has been such a valuable member of our side ever since he joined. He’s really well respected by the group and by the coaches as well,” he said.
“He’s really the perfect fit here, he’s the type of person that we want to have to help grow the culture at the club, but obviously most importantly he is a brilliant footballer and he’s shown that on numerous occasions this season.”
Meanwhile, Slovenian international Rene Krhin is one of three Western United players confirmed not to be returning.
The new champions announced on Friday that Krhin, Jerry Skotadis and Ivan Vujica are all moving on after finishing their contracts.
Krhin, who joined United for the recent season, had an interrupted season.
He didn’t play until February due to injury and getting his fitness back and played his first full game in late March.
A hamstring injury in the final game of the regular season saw him sidelined again.
He would miss the whole final series, including the championship game.
Skotadis, who was named Western United young player of the year for the 2021-22 season, came off the bench in the 2-0 grand final win against Melbourne City.
He joined United in the 2019-20 season as a scholarship player, before signing a two-year contract in 2020.
Skotadis played 43 games for United as well as 11 games for the club’s National Premier League season.
Vujica, who joined in June 2019, made 12 appearances in green and black throughout his time at the club.
He didn’t play a game during the 2021-22 season.
United football general manager Mal Impiombato thanked all three for their contributions to the club.
“We thank Rene, Jerry and Ivan for their efforts in green and black and wish them all the best with their next steps.
“All three players have made a strong contribution in our young history and we wish them and their families all the very best with their future endeavours.”
