Turnbull Picks Strikers Over Bundesliga
Words: Michael Flynn & Steve Pitman
Image: Getty Images
Former Olyroos goalkeeper Michael Turnbull has turned down an offer from Germany’s Bundesliga to re-sign with Brisbane Strikers for the 2015 PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland season.
Turnbull, who previously played for European powerhouses AS Roma and Standard Liege, came out of retirement midway through the 2014 season to play the final five games of Strikers 2014 league campaign.
He was also present for the club’s inaugural Westfield FFA Cup run, which culminated in a 1-0 Round of 16 defeat against former National Soccer League rivals Adelaide City.
Turnbull said he had no regrets about turning down the offer from an unnamed Bundesliga club, which came shortly after he announced his comeback, as he focuses on building his real estate business whilst continuing to play with Strikers.
“The reason why I turned down the Bundesliga offer was primarily because I wanted to finish my (football) career in Australia,” Turnbull explained.
“I’ve played in Europe before so I know what is involved in moving to another country to play football – it’s quite a massive commitment.”
Turnbull added, “I’ve got a good business here as well with real estate, so I’d be a bit hesitant to leave.”
“If I was 25 and still chasing that professional dream I would have jumped at the chance. But at this stage it was not what I wanted to do.”
Strikers coach Kevin A’herne-Evans said he was delighted to retain the services of Turnbull as he embarks on his first campaign guiding the former National Soccer League champions.
"We are delighted with the re-signing of Michael Turnbull, who is arguably the best ‘keeper outside the A-League,” A’herne-Evans stated.
“He has a wealth of experience and is a positive influence on his team mates – the respect he has from them is second to none.”
In addition to their Westfield FFA Cup run, Strikers recorded a second consecutive PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland Finals appearance in 2014 – falling to eventual Champions Palm Beach SC in the Semi-Final.
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