After weeks of speculation, rejected overseas moves and competition from rival A-League clubs, Israeli striker Tomer Hemed has penned a one-year deal with the Western Sydney Wanderers ahead of their tenth season in the A-League.
After a slow start to life at the Wellington Phoenix, Hemed kicked into striking form last season, netting 11 goals in 21 games for the Nix’, finishing third in the golden boot race.
His family was based in Sydney last campaign, with the Phoenix residing in Wollongong. Tomer was understood to have been extremely happy in Australia with his young family, and was elated with the warmth of the Jewish and Israeli communities in Sydney.
Head coach Carl Robinson expressed his excitement at the new signing.
“We are delighted to have Tomer with us for the upcoming A-League season,” said Robinson.
“Tomer is an excellent forward and brings overseas experience at both a club and country level, as well as an understanding of the domestic football landscape that will greatly benefit the team.
“Tomer leads not only from the front third, but off the pitch, his professionalism is top class and he will be very valuable in our continuation to build something special here at the Wanderers.
Prior to arriving in Australia with the Phoenix, Hemed plied his trade for Maccabi Haifa in Israel, moving to Spain to play for Mallorca and Almeria.
Following this, he played six seasons in England including a stint in the Premier League with Brighton and Hove Albion.
Hemed stated his elation at signing for WSW.
“There is a lot of work to be done with the club and the fan’s high expectations and ambitions, but I am ready to give my all for the club and the Western Sydney community” said Hemed.
“I am looking forward to arriving in Western Sydney with my family and playing in front of the passionate Wanderers fans who I got to experience as an opposition player last season at Bankwest Stadium and I am delighted to have them now on my side.
In a move bound to bring the Jewish community to Bankwest, this signing marks the Wanderers’ first foreign signing of the 2021/22 campaign.
