Most fans will be excited with the news that Aziz Behich has been rewarded with a place on the club's permanent roster until the end of the 2011/12 season.
This not only recognises the achievement of a fine young player, but also strengthens the club's commitment towards developing Victorian talent.
He's been excellent value for a player who was perhaps unnecessarily discarded by our navy counterparts; bringing a keen work rate, versatility and an abundance of pace.
Aziz has worked incredibly hard to turn around his fortunes after what must have been a difficult time. A short stint with Hume City in the VPL was enough to earn another shot at the big time with a trial being offered by the new Melbourne club.
From the dark days of 'that grand final miss' to the invaluable experience of playing against English Premier League opposition, Aziz is continuing a remarkable transformation and proving his undoubted value to our side.
His eight A-League matches in red and white have been solid, having come off the bench 5 times and more recently, starting on three occasions. One of the most impressive starting XI performances coming against his former club.
The inaugural Melbourne derby was a glorious day for our club, and Aziz's superb performance not only helped us to a historic victory, but furthered his case for a permanent contract. Many considered his dismissal harsh but regardless, he was brought straight back into the starting XI (after serving his 1 match ban) for last Saturday's match against Gold Coast; reaffirming his value to the side.
JVS has been quick to praise the teenager's work ethic, stating: "Aziz has done well since he joined the group in pre-season, and has been prepared to play wherever the team needed him. Every week he has been taking steps forward. It is a great reward for the effort that he is put in that he now has a longer term contract. We have no doubt he will continue to work hard and become more and more important to the group."
The confidence of knowing your playing future is secured will hopefully only strengthen his performances and allow him to continue his impressive development at national league level.
