Maligned Socceroos striker Robbie Kruse is set for a return to domestic football this season through the A-League’s Melbourne Victory, the club has confirmed.
SBS The World Game initially reported the 30-year-old Socceroos striker had been in discussions with Marco Kurz and Victory since returning to Australia in late June. Kruse played for Victory between 2009 and 2011, scoring 15 goals in 43 appearances after a prior three-year stint with Brisbane Roar.
In a club statement, Kruse said he was “excited to return home”, calling the opportunity to represent the Victory again “really special.”
“I have great memories playing with Victory and of the club as whole; it helped me set expectations of myself as a player and ground me professionally.
“During our discussions, I’ve been impressed with Marco Kurz’s vision for the team and look forward to joining my teammates, many new and a couple I already know,” he said.
The Queensland-native relocated to Germany in 2011, enjoying a six-season career in Europe mainly with Bayer Leverkusen, whom he scored two goals with in 21 appearances.
After a brief stint with Liaoning Whowin in China, Kruse returned to Germany two years ago with VfL Bochum in the 2. Bundesliga, but reportedly fell out of favour with the club midway through the season.
The forward has been capped 75 times for the Socceroos since his debut in 2011, although his return of only five goals has made him a frequent target of criticism by fans.
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