The imposing central defender comes to Adelaide having been one of the in-form stoppers this season.

Ognenovski's hallmark no-nonsense style is in line with United coach Aurelio Vidmar’s intentions to toughen up and provide a more ruthless defence.

“We are extremely happy to have gained the services of Sasa. He’s had a tremendous season for the Queensland Roar and he’s going to add a lot of experience, aggression and strength in a very key area for us,” Vidmar said.

“He’s a winner and doesn’t like to get beaten and they are great attributes to have.”

Roar had one of the stingiest defences in the league (Queensland and Newcastle both conceding just 21 goals for the season), and Ognenovski’s experience and organisation at the back will be a boost for United.

Melbourne-born Ognenovski is looking forward to starting his tenure with his new club and being part of the Reds going forward.

“Adelaide United have been a successful club and it was a bit unfortunate with injuries and suspensions last season. In the old NSL days Adelaide were strong as well and I look forward to being a part of the club,” Ognenovski said.

“I really enjoying playing at Hindmarsh Stadium, it’s always a nice surface and it’s great playing at a real soccer stadium.”

Given his opportunity to play in the A-League in 2006/07 after spending time in the Victorian Premier League, the 28 year old has gained confidence in the national competition.

He has also proven to be calm under pressure, demonstrated when he stepped up and scored the penalty that buried Sydney FC and sent Roar to the Preliminary Final.

Ognenovski’s time with the Queensland Roar ended when they were beaten by Newcastle Jets in the Preliminary Final last Sunday, effectively ruling the Roar out of an AFC Champions League berth in 2009.

However, Ognenovski could now be part of AFC champions League action with United, something he is looking forward to if he is cleared to compete in the tournament.

“With Queensland we had two chances to qualify for the Champions League, one against Adelaide in the final round and last weekend against Newcastle and we failed at both so it’s disappointing but I’m sure Queensland will move on from it and so will I,” Ognenovski said.

“If I get the chance to play in the AFC Champions League with Adelaide it would be a great experience, I watched Adelaide and Sydney in it last year and I’m sure Adelaide have learnt from the experience and hopefully the club can make it through to the knockout stage.”

Vidmar hopes to have Ognenovski in Adelaide to start training with his new team mates late next week, and it is hoped he will eligible to play in The Reds’ 2008 AFC Champions League campaign, which kicks off on Wednesday March 12 against the Pohang Steelers in South Korea.