The Newcastle Jets have signed defender Allan Welsh for the Hyundai A-League 2014/15 season.

Welsh joins Newcastle following a successful trial with the Jets at the recent Townsville Football Cup, where he performed strongly against Hyundai A-League opposition.

Welsh is a former Adelaide United youth team captain and was named the Club’s youth team Player of the Year in 2011.

The 20-year-old has most recently been playing for Croydon Kings, who he has helped guide to the Grand Final of the South Australian NPL competition.

“I’m excited to get the opportunity to play for the Jets and test myself in the A-League,” Welsh said.

“The chance to link-up with the boys in Townsville was a really good experience and I think that will help me to settle into the Club a little bit quicker.

“I’m looking forward to being in a professional environment again and I’ll be doing my best to play as many A-League games as possible and help the Jets have a big season.”

Jets head coach Phil Stubbins said the addition of Welsh added depth to the Jets’ squad.

“We were pleased with what we saw from Allan when he joined the squad in Townsville,” Stubbins said.

“He’s a tall, imposing central defender who can also do a job in the midfield if required.

“He’s very capable with both feet, composed on the ball and provides a strong presence on the pitch.

“We’re pleased to have Allan at the Newcastle Jets and we look forward to him joining the rest of the squad.”

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