The Wellington Phoenix has completed the signing of former Sydney FC striker Blake Powell

Powell, 24, had two seasons with Sydney FC between 2012 and 2014 and was part of their Asian Champions League squad before losing his place following a knee operation. He has been signed on a one-year contract with an option for a further year.

This year he has been with New South Wales NPL club APIA Leichhardt where he has scored 21 goals in 16 games.

Powell said he was very excited to get another opportunity to play in the Hyundai A-League and was looking forward to the challenge.

“Ernie Merrick has given me another chance at that level and it is up to me to repay him by scoring goals which is something I love doing,” Powell said.

“I got to know the Phoenix boys on the pre-season trip to Fiji and they are a great bunch.”

Merrick said the striker had impressed him while trialling during the Fiji trip and felt he would fit into the squad well.

“Blake has the technical ability and speed and has had A-League experience with Sydney,” Merrick said.

“His effort and commitment in Fiji was first class and he enjoys scoring goals as shown by him being the leading goal scorer in the New South Wales National Premier League this season.

“He hasn’t been signed as a No 1 striker and will have to earn his place, but I have a good feeling about him.”

Powell will arrive in Wellington later this month.