After signing a two-year contract extension with the club, Bruce Djite has said that his main reason for staying a Red is the potential the team has to challenge and win trophies.
Djite revealed that he received offers from other clubs before deciding that Adelaide United was the club for him.
“There was quite a bit of interest this time around, from both clubs here and internationally,” the striker, who is just 27 said.
“But if I’m going to play in the Hyundai A-League, I can’t see myself playing for any other club and both the league and Adelaide United are at a great level.”
“There’s definitely a lot of opportunities here at Adelaide and I look forward to helping the league grow and helping my teammates and the club win more trophies.
“The club did a lot to keep me here and I am very appreciative of what they have done for me up until now, so I want to repay them with my performances on the field.”
Djite, the club’s equal Hyundai A-League top goal scorer with Sergio Cirio, noted that the atmosphere around the club is much different now to when he first came back to play in Australia, and he credits the coaching staff for the positive change.
“The coaches have set up structures and a game style and plan that really suits the boys we have here and the types of players we’ve needed have came in as well,” he said.
“Football is one of those games where an individual (unless you’re Messi or Ronaldo) can’t really impact the game too much so you need to rely on your teammates for help and support – everyone is benefiting from that kind of atmosphere at the moment.”
Since arriving back to Australia in 2011, Bruce Djite credits his new contract to hard work and perseverance.
“There’s always going to be ups and downs when you’re an elite sportsman but if you persevere and stay brave and strong then the rewards will eventually come to you,” the revitalised striker said.
“I think that every successful person, not just a football player, will work relentlessly to achieve their goals.”
This weekend is Play Football Round. The 2015 grassroots season is just around the corner, and it’s set to be a big year for football. So whether it’s playing, coaching or refereeing, discover your passion for football today! Be sure to play your part and register at myfootballclub.com.au