Berisha’s playing to win
A-LEAGUE: ROUND 1
BESART Berisha has nothing to prove but declared that the A-League’s newest club does, as he prepares to lead Western United into battle.
The A-League’s record goalscorer opted for the expansion club ahead of several other suitors, including Melbourne City, after a stint in Japan.
And at 34, Berisha believes he has plenty of good football left in him after signing a twoyear deal.
Asked if he has a point to prove after a disappointing spell at Sanfrecce Hiroshima where he played just seven games, Berisha said: “No, no. Everybody knows me. Knows what I did, what I can do.
“People always, even (when) I played the best level here in Australia, always was something (negative) to say. It looks like some things never change about that — but I’m used to that, to prove people wrong.
“I’m going to work for this, I’ll focus on my job like I always did and focus to help my team and win games.”
Berisha — who had some stellar duels with Western Sydney in their debut seasons when he was a Brisbane Roar striker — said it was imperative the A-League’s 11th team makes a debut season impact.
“It’s really important for the club (to make an impact). It’s a new club, new challenge for everybody, new team,’’ he said.
“I’ll try with my experience everything to help. I want to have a good start and I hope we can build game by game good momentum — this is really important for a new season.
“Western United need a good start and I hope we get it. We are a hardworking team and that’s what we want to show.”
The Albania and Kosovo international, who has acquired Australian citizenship, is one of the A-League’s visa greats, winning four titles in seven years with Roar and Melbourne Victory.
He said ambition was a key reason behind choosing United.
“When I had a talk with Mark (Rudan), I was sure I want to join this club. Mark wants to achieve things, be successful and that’s what I want. Especially the last years I can count in football,’’ Berisha said.
“I’m 34, and you want to try to get the best out of these years. If you play two, three or four years — you don’t know. But you want to enjoy.”