Steven Lustica has ensured that he will be a part of each of the Western United’s first five seasons in the Isuzu UTE A-League Men, signing a one-year contract extension at the Club.
The midfielder joined United in February 2020 and became a key part of the team that excelled in the New South Wales hub and reached a Preliminary Final.
Lustica has gone on to make 63 appearances for United in total and will continue to play a pivotal role both on and off the pitch for the Green and Black.
Upon putting pen to paper on his new deal, Lustica said he remains right at home in the West and is eager to continue being part of United’s future.
“I’m very excited and happy to extend my contract with Western United. I am enjoying my time here and feel a great connection with the Club,” he said.
“We have accomplished so much in our short history and I look forward to future success in the coming years. There’s a lot to look forward to with our new training facility and stadium, and there is a great culture at the Club led by John (Aloisi) and his coaching staff.”
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato said that Lustica’s presence since the inaugural season has meant his leadership and impact on the group have become invaluable.
“Steven was instrumental last season both on and off the field in helping us achieve our Championship success,” he said.
“We have certainly missed his influence on the pitch this season through injury, however we are buoyed by his return and look forward to another successful period with Steven.
“Steven embodies everything that we stand for as a Club and importantly, he is a great person and leader with a winning mentality.”
Lustica enjoyed arguably the best season of his career in 2021/22, playing 26 times and scoring five goals on the way to helping United lift its first ever Isuzu UTE A-League Championship.
His mental and physical fortitude was best displayed in the Finals Series when he returned from injury to play a part in both the Semi-Final second leg and the Grand Final, providing a necessary boost to United’s midfield.
A fan favourite in the West, Lustica will continue to help lead the Club into its future as it prepares to head to the West later this year.
