Overseas star could play out the rest of his career in the A-League.
Japanese star Shinji Ono wants to extend his contract with the Western Sydney Wanderers, which could see him finish his career in Australia’s A-League, a report said on Monday.
The 34-year-old, who has played for Japan 56 times and appeared in three World Cups, is in the final year of his contract and said he would be happy to sign an extension.
“I want to stay as long as possible… I’m very happy,” he told The Sydney Morning Herald.
Ono, who scored a stunning individual goal in the Wanderers’ 2-0 derby win over Sydney FC on Saturday, said his future was in the hands of the club.
”I don’t know, ask (them),” he said when asked about his future. ”I have just a one-year contract but of course I want to stay as long as possible because I love this club, I love these supporters, I love these teammates.”
Wanderers coach Tony Popovic said he is not in any immediate rush to secure Ono’s future.
“I don’t feel any pressure at all to have to start talks now,” he said. “All that will come in due time, when it’s right for the club and right for the player.
“It’s great to hear that he’s really enjoying his time here at the club and I think Saturday night, that helps when he sees that kind of fan support.”
Ono has been an outstanding success for the Wanderers, thrilling their large following with his sublime skills and vision.
The playmaker lived up to his marquee status in the Sydney derby win before 40,000 fans with two decisive moments of individual brilliance in the first half.
An inch-perfect free kick was headed home by Italian midfielder Iacopo La Rocca for the opening goal and then Ono embarrassed Sydney FC’s defence as he turned two players to seal the result with a shot into the far corner of the net.
Ono said the goal was one of the most memorable of his career.
”I’m very happy because I scored in front of a big crowd, and I really appreciate both teams, both clubs’ supporters. They made us play in a great atmosphere,” he said.
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