New Melbourne Heart FC recruit Marcel Meeuwis has signalled his desire to assist the Red and White in securing a berth in the Hyundai A-League Finals Series.
New Melbourne Heart FC recruit Marcel Meeuwis has signalled his desire to assist the Red and White in its quest for a berth in the Hyundai A-League Finals Series.
Meeuwis arrived in Australia from Europe at 4am yesterday and joined his teammates briefly at yesterday’s training, before completing a full training session today with the first team squad this afternoon.
After shrugging off suggestions of jetlag, Meeuwis, a midfielder who boasts experience in the Dutch Eredivisie and German Bundesliga, said he would love to get straight into the thick of the action in this Friday-s match against the Newcastle Jets.
Meeuwis will have to wait for his international clearance before he can take part in Friday night’s clash, but the 32-year-old has already started to acclimatise to his new surroundings.
“Football is an international language… and I have learned the names of the [Heart players] very fast because I think that is very important; when I want to have the ball I need to know their name,” Meeuwis said.
“I feel well, everybody is very nice here and have helped me, so I feel well.”
Meeuwis has connections with Heart’s Goalkeeping Coach Peter Zois, with whom he once played with, as well as coach Joey Didulica.
However, it was fellow Dutchman Patrick Zwaanswijk from the Central Coast Mariners who recommended Meeuwis move to the A-League.
“My agent called me and asked if I wanted to go to Australia and I [thought] about it for two days and decided that I wanted to do it,” Meeuwis said.
“Melbourne Heart came and I looked up the Club on the Internet and researched the Club and I spoke with [General Manager, Football Operations] John Didulica.
“I spoke with Patrick Zwaanswijk and I decided I wanted to go to Australia to play football.
“So I know a few guys and they are very nice here.”
Meeuwis, who prefers to play as a shielding midfielder, is determined to make a meaningful impact at his new club, after first adapting to the change in weather conditions.
“It’s hot, but I like it,” Meeuwis said.
“When I left Holland it was snowing, and minus three degrees.
“I signed because I want to [help] the players in the team and then we will see what happens.
“It-s not easy but I think I will succeed,” Meeuwis said.
