Hawke’s Bay United have wasted little time in the transfer window luring Oly-White fullback Ian Hogg (left) back to Park Island for the reminder of the 2008-09 New Zealand Football Championship.
The transfer should also be processed in time for the Junior All White Captain to line-up for Hawke’s Bay in their friendly against a visiting Wellington Phoenix on Thursday night.
Hogg, 19, played 33 times for Hawke’s Bay United over the 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons but moved to reigning champions Waitakere United in time for the start of the current season.
However, Auckland based Hogg found it much tougher to nail down a starting spot in Waitakere’s line-up, featuring in only two NZFC matches and one O-League game for the West Auckland club.
Hawke’s Bay Football Manager Jonathan Gould – who has also worked closely with Hogg as part of Olympic and Junior All Whites coaching staff – offered his former charge a warm welcome.
“We’re delighted that Ian has decided to come back and join Hawke’s Bay United., said Gould.
“He has improved further following his experiences at the Olympics and has become an even more accomplished player.
“Ian will add to the competitive nature of this squad which is crucial going into the second half of the season”.
Hawke’s Bay are one of four teams currently on 12 points – one behind leaders
Waitakere although Gould’s men lie fifth on goal difference, just outside the semi-finals spots.
Hawke’s Bay United’s clash with the Wellington Phoenix which kicks off at 5:45pm on Thursday evening at Park Island.
Story courtesy www.nzfc.co.nz
Photograph courtesy New Zealand Football Media and Getty Images
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