Newcastle coach Mark Jones believes 18-year-old Mario Shabow will become an important player for the club over the next two years after confirmation on Wednesday he will join the Jets from Western Sydney Wanderers.
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Shabow, an attacking midfielder, has signed a two-year deal to become part of Newcastle’s A-League squad after finishing this season with Wanderers.
The Australian youth international has made one A-League appearance and one in the Asian Champions League.
Shabow was born in Baghdad and moved to Australia with his family when he was six.
“It’s always a challenge moving to a new environment but I am looking forward to it,” Shabow said in a Jets statement.
“I really want to come in and give it all I can for two years. I want to make an impact right from the off and play as many games as I can.
“I need to take the next step and that’s playing games at the elite level.
“I have a very attacking style. I am all about one-touch passing, movement, getting into the pockets and dangerous areas and trying to take shots or make assists.”
Jones said Shabow was an exciting young talent and was one of the best players in the National Youth League.
“We have watched him numerous times and he has got good feet and possesses an X-factor,” Jones said.
“We are excited to help Mario develop his game and we hope he will become a regular contributor for us.”
