Brisbane Roar has secured further competition for places leading into the new season with the signing of versatile wide man Nick Olsen.
Olsen, 26, returns to Australia after spending more than two years in Kuwait, first at Al-Jahra SC and then Khaitan SC in the nation’s capital.
The left-footed former Young Soceroo brings balance and depth to Warren Moon’s squad, with the ability to play as a winger or wing-back.
“I’m happy to be here and happy to have a chance to play in the A-League,” Olsen said.
“I’ve been overseas for three years, so I felt like it was the right time for me to come back home and give myself a shot here.
“I’m feeling good. I feel ready to go physically but of course I’ve still got a lot to work on. It will take a little bit of time to gel with the boys but they’ve been very welcoming.”
Olsen came through the Western Sydney Wanderers academy and had stints with NPL New South Wales sides APIA Leichhardt, Sydney United 58 and Sutherland Sharks before taking up a unique opportunity in Kuwait.
“It was very different, a different culture, so it took some time getting used to,” he said of the experience.
“I’m quite open-minded though so for me it wasn’t too much of a shock.
“It was just a great experience being able to play and live in another country, especially one like Kuwait.”
Roar Head Coach Moon said: “We’re pleased to welcome Nick back to Australia and look forward to seeing him show what he can do with this opportunity.
“He’s a technically and tactically adept player and we like what he brings to the squad with his left foot.
“It’s important to have options across the pitch and Nick gives us that nice flexibility.”
Olsen is available for selection for this afternoon’s FFA Cup Round of 16 match against Lions FC, which kicks off at 3:30pm at Lions Stadium in Richlands.
