17.05.2014 03:43 h

Football: Socceroo Spiranovic re-signs with Wanderers

Young defender Matthew Spiranovic has re-signed with Western Sydney Wanderers for a further two seasons just weeks before playing for Australia at the World Cup in Brazil.

Spiranovic, who turns 26 next month, had a stand-out debut season with the Wanderers, culminating in Socceroos World Cup selection.

Spiranovic played 18 times in this season's A-League, including one goal scored in this year's Grand Final, as well as making five appearances in the AFC Champions League where the Wanderers have reached the quarter-finals.

"I had other options overseas and in Australia but what swayed me was the culture that Popa (coach Tony Popovic) has installed at the club," said Spiranovic, who has played with Nurnberg in Germany and Urawa Red Diamonds in Japan.

"While clubs from Europe and Asia were calling, as a player, you always want to be playing in the big games against the best teams.

"By signing with the Wanderers I know I will get the opportunity to do that and continue to improve my football."

Spiranovic, who has been capped 17 times for the Socceroos since his debut in 2008, was named this week in Ange Postecoglou's preliminary 30-man squad.