A-League: Newcastle utility finds new home in Perth

After a short stint with the Brisbane Roar as an injury replacement last season and half a season with Altona in the Victorian National Premier League, Burke-Gilroy has signed a two-year contract with the Glory.

It is the type of security the 23-year-old has craved since given a scholarship by the Newcastle Jets five years ago.

Since then, he has lived of year-to-year deals in the second divisions in Portugal and the USA.

"It is very good security-wise and it gives me time to make Perth my new home," he said. "The safety net is really good. In saying that, my mentality is one season at a time, trying to have a big season and have a lot of success."

Burke-Gilroy came through the Jets youth season and had been predominantly a midfielder until he was switched to right back in second season in the US with the Seattle Sounders.

That is where he sees his future at the Glory.

"I have a bit of versatility now," he said. "I think the main role for me will be right back or wingback. With Dane Ingham moving to the Jets and Jason Geria also leaving, it opened up a spot.

"They do know I can play in the midfield and if they need me there I am more than happy to play that role.

"I am at a stage in my life where I am still growing as a player on and off the field. Definitely being around all the experience in this team, players like Bruno Fornaroli, Andy Keogh, Liam Reddy, Brandon O'Neill and Castro if he signs ... it will definitely be quality being around those types of players.

"There are also a lot of younger players coming through the ranks.

"It is a great mix to be around. I think this is a big step in my career."

Burke Gilroy has been on the Glory's radar for six months.

"Last year when I came back from Seattle, there was talk of me going into the Asian Champions League with Perth," he said. "I have been on their radar for a little bit. With COVID, I would have had to do another 14 days in isolation after doing one in NSW. It just didn't work out."

Burke-Gilroy ended up spending 16 days in quarantine in Perth before being released on Wednesday.

"I'm just glad to be out," he said.

"A nurse was supposed to come on day 12 for the second [COVID} Test. "There was a mishap and I had to go and get tested the next day and wait until the results came back."