Robbie Kruse says fond memories of his first stint at Melbourne Victory were the driving force behind his return to the Hyundai A-League.
It was announced on Tuesday that Kruse would be returning to Melbourne on a two-year deal after eight years in Germany and 75 Socceroos caps.
Kruse credits much of his success to the way he turned his career around at Victory.
“The club has always had a special place in my heart,” Kruse said.
“I was in a tough spot when I finished in Brisbane, I wasn’t sure what I was going to do, and Melbourne [Victory] came and gave me a lifeline.
“It’s a wonderful club here, it’s a family club, and the facilities and everything give you every chance to succeed.
“It all started here, and I’m really excited to come back and give back to the club that’s helped me have the career I’ve had.”
Kruse is Victory boss Marco Kurz’s first signing since arriving in Melbourne and the German is looking forward to working with the Socceroos attacker.
Having lost attacking talent such as Kosta Barbarouses and Keisuke Honda since the end of last season, Kurz sees Kruse as an ideal replacement.
“He’s a really talented player with experience both overseas and here in the A-League,” Kurz said.
“It’s important to have this kind of player with experience but also one that is hungry for the next step.
“I think his quality is really high. He can also finish and score goals, which is very important to us because we lost some players who scored goals last season. He’s the sort of player who can make the difference in the league and the game.”
