Josh Risdon will take Western United into its most exciting season of A-Leagues football after being named the Club’s second ever Isuzu UTE A-League Men captain.
Alongside Risdon, fellow foundation players Steven Lustica and Tomoki Imai complete United’s leadership trident as vice-captains.
Having been the vice-captain for the past two seasons, Risdon wore the captain’s armband throughout the 2022 Isuzu UTE A-League Finals Series, including in a heroic Grand Final performance as the Green and Black lifted the Championship.
Risdon’s character, resilience and determination on the pitch have been emblematic of the Club’s values since day one, with the Socceroo having been the first Australian to sign for the Club in 2019.
Tomoki Imai joined the Club during the inaugural season and has been a significant member of the squad ever since.
A mainstay at the back, Imai has developed into a favourite amongst the fans and his peers and will continue to inspire his teammates on the pitch.
Lustica also joined Western United during the Club’s first ever season and was a particularly integral part of United’s Championship-winning season.
With 177 games of Isuzu UTE A-League experience, Lustica will help to lead a young and exciting core in Western United’s midfield and is set for another big season in Green and Black.
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato hailed the trio’s continued importance in setting standards for the team and the Club as a whole.
“Josh, Tomoki and Steven are three ultimate professionals and their influence as foundation players has been fundamental to our growth as a Club,” he said.
“After his outstanding work as vice-captain for two seasons, we are delighted to elevate Josh to the captaincy and we are equally pleased to have leaders like Tomoki and Steven to support him and drive our culture and expectations.”
Western United Head Coach John Aloisi added his confidence that Risdon, Imai and Lustica would be able to drive the team to a successful season.
“Josh, Tomoki and Steven are all key voices in the dressing room and are a delight for me as a coach to have leading our group,” he said.
“Their influence and ability to get the best out of their peers will be crucial for us this season, and I am looking forward to watching their impact on the pitch each week.”
The leadership trio will take the Green and Black into battle this weekend when the Isuzu UTE A-League season begins, with United taking on Victorian rivals Melbourne City on Saturday night.
Join for the ride with Risdon and co. as United chases more glory in the Isuzu UTE A-League. Become a Western United member and show your support for the Green and Black, today.
