By Jon Ritson

Membership numbers are in to five figures with the club chairman delighted to welcome so many new faces on board.

Geoff Lord said: “We are thrilled at the response from our members who have jumped on board for the new season.

“Of course, there’s still a long way to go before we reach our target of 20,000 members, but the early signs are very encouraging. The pleasing thing about this number is that more than half are new members, which is a fantastic sign.

“However, it also means that half of our members from last season are yet to renew, and we’d encourage them to sign up as early as possible with the new season just around the corner.

“Everyone at the club would like to thank those fans who have become members already, and we want to let those who have not yet committed to the club as members know that while we value their support, the welcome mat is well and truly out for them at our new Membership and Merchandise Shop in Swan Street, Richmond.”

Melbourne Victory opens its doors this week to all members and fans with an open training session at Olympic Park on Thursday (12 July) from 10-11.30am. Memberships will be available from Vodafone Arena prior to and following the open training session.

Lord said: “We see the open training session as a great opportunity for fans, especially during school holidays, to get down and show their support for the team as they prepare for the Pre-Season Cup opener against Adelaide United in Launceston on Sunday.”

The club will also unveil its new A-League home strip at the training session on Thursday. The shirts are now available from the Melbourne Victory Club Shop at 236 Swan Street, Richmond.