AFC Bournemouth
AFC Bournemouth goalkeeper Adam Federici is eager to claim the number one spot after penning a new three-year deal with the Cherries.
Federici played 12 times for the club last season after signing from Reading and recently played for Australia, earning his 15th cap for the Socceroos against Greece this month.
But the 31-year-old is keen to secure his place as the Cherries' number one in the upcoming season and is excited to commit his long term future to the club.
"I’m delighted to have signed a new contact," Federici said.
"I’ve worked hard this year to keep improving and the last year has been great. I’ve been settling in and getting to know the lads so I’m really looking forward to next year now.
"The manager played a big part in me signing, the coaching staff and the way we play football are factors too. I feel I suit the team and look forward to playing more this season, I’m working really hard towards that.
"I’ve never seen myself as a number two goalkeeper. I need to get rid of that tag and push on, I want to improve and play more next season – hopefully I can achieve that."
Federici’s first year with the Cherries saw the club survive in the Premier League in their debut top flight campaign.
The Socceroos stopper reflected on last season’s ‘special’ achievements and feels he is reaching the peak years of his career.
"There were lots of big attractions to stay here, the manager and staff are excellent and you can see there is something special happening down here. I want to be part of that bright future ahead," he continued.
"Last season was a special season for the club, I would've loved to have played a bigger part.
"But it wasn’t to be, I picked an injury up at a bad time. But I’m really excited for this season, I’m coming to good era of my career at a good age and I’m learning every day and working hard to keep improving.
"Last year was a special one for everyone involved, the work behind the scenes that goes on is immense and the coaching staff put so much work into training that isn’t seen. It’s not just the players who are eager to make it special, the staff work hard on and off the pitch and that’s a big reason why I wanted to sign my new contract."
Last season was a special season for the club, I would’ve loved to have played a bigger part.
