Perth Glory is delighted to confirm that experienced Matildas forward Leena Khamis has joined the club’s Liberty A-League squad on a short-term injury replacement contract.
Khamis has made more than 120 Liberty A-League appearances during spells with Sydney FC, Canberra United and most recently, Western Sydney Wanderers, for whom she scored two goals in ten games last season.
Her domestic honours include two Premierships and one Championship title, plus a Golden Boot in 2009, while at international level, the 35-year-old has 25 Matildas caps to her name and was part of the squad which won the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2010.
Glory’s attacking options have been depleted by recent injuries to Cyera Hintzen, Susan Phonsongkham and Demi Koulizakis and having been approached by Head Coach Alex Epakis, Khamis jumped at the opportunity to continue her Liberty A-League career.
“I still had the drive and passion to go on and play the 2022 season, but unfortunately wasn’t given the opportunity,” she said.
“Alex got in contact with me and we had a really good chat regarding the team and how I could possibly help out.
“I think these ladies are a special group.
“They have a really good chance to push for Finals this season and I hope to achieve it with them.
“We aim to play Semi-Finals football because based on history, anything can happen once you’re there.
“I’d like to thank Alex and Perth Glory for the opportunity.”
Epakis, meanwhile, is confident that Khamis can make a significant contribution to the Glory cause on and off the field.
“I am really pleased and excited to have Leena on board over the next few weeks,” he said.
“She has already had an instant impact on the team and training environment.
“Leena brings a priceless amount of experience and competitive attitude and that will certainly add to our competitiveness and goals over the coming weeks.
“It’s very unfortunate to be without some players who have done well for us so far this season, but I know Leena is relishing the opportunity to provide a big impact for us.”
Khamis is expected to be included in Glory’s squad for Sunday’s Liberty A-League clash with Newcastle Jets at No.2 Sportsground.
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