On his maiden appearance for Adelaide United, goalkeeper James Delianov produced a brilliant display on his way to keeping a clean sheet against Western United.
Delianov impressed against the side which he was on the books of last season but missed the majority of the campaign through injury.
Before that he was at Melbourne City and trained alongside his current Goalkeeping Coach in Eugene Galekovic.
Delianov said it has been great working with the Reds legend as he claims the number one starting spot.
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“I played with Eugene in my last year at Melbourne City and basically our relationship has kind of continued on,” he told FOX Sports post-match.
“It’s a little bit different him being a coach but I’m loving every minute of it.”
The 21-year-old said he approached the game with calmness and not over think anything.
“I just took it as another game,” Delianov revealed.
“And just tried to do my thing, as I said I’m happy with the clean sheet but spewing we didn’t get the win.”
Indeed, Delianov suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury early last season and said it was a difficult time for him, doubting if he would ever return.
“Whenever someone does their ACL it’s very tough,” he said.
“There’s moments where you think you’re not going to play football ever again especially for me.
“I worked with a physio at Western United and did really well so just kept pushing and really grateful for the opportunity that’s arisen here, so hopefully many more clean sheets to come.”
https://players.brightcove.net/5498268479001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6218596516001
Delianov said one of the reasons for signing with Adelaide was due to the prospect of being a starting ‘keeper following the departure of Paul Izzo to Greece.
“Izzo has left big shoes to fill for me,” he admitted.
“He’s a phenomenal ‘keeper… but I’m just here working hard every day and trying to do my best every day really.”
Next match details:
Game date: Sunday, 3 January
A-League 2020/21 Matchweek 2
Kick-off 5.35pm ACDT
Gates open 4.35pm ACDT
Venue: Coopers Stadium
Broadcast: Fox Sports
Stream: Kayo Sports, MyFootball Live App
