The Newcastle Jets have appointed former Australia defender Mark Milligan as their new head coach, following the dismissal of Rob Stanton in a move that had been widely expected.
Milligan, who boasts 80 caps for the Socceroos, including participation in four World Cups, is now charged with revitalising the Jets for the 2025-26 A-League season after the team failed to reach the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year.
“It’s an exciting time for the Newcastle Jets under new ownership,” Milligan, who had a brief spell with the Jets during the 2008-09 season, stated on Tuesday.
“From the outset, their strategy aligned perfectly with my vision for the Jets, focusing on player development while striving for team success.
“Having played for the club and spent time in Newcastle, I understand the fans’ passion for a high-energy, attacking style of football.“
At 39 years of age, Milligan was most recently the assistant coach for Malaysia, working alongside his fellow Australian Peter Cklamovski, after previous roles with A-League teams Adelaide United and Macarthur FC, where he concluded his professional playing career in 2021.
The Jets, who ended the recent A-League season in ninth place out of 13 teams, claimed their only championship in 2008 but have not entered the playoffs since reaching the Grand Final in 2018 under former manager Ernie Merrick.
The club has grappled with ownership issues and financial instability for over a decade, yet there is optimism for a brighter future following their acquisition by the Maverick Sports Group last year.
“Mark’s experience as a player gives him unique insight into the community, and he understands the importance of establishing a strong identity for the Newcastle Jets,” remarked club chairman Maurice Bisetto.
“We are confident that Mark will foster a robust culture throughout the club, ultimately building a winning team that the local region can take pride in.“
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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