With Adrian Leijer’s departure to Fulham, the door has opened for Daniel Piorkowski to become a regular starter.
Signed by the Melbourne Victory in 2005, it was a while before Piorkowski began to be chosen regularly by coach Ernie Merrick. His debut for the Victory did not come till the 5th round clash with Queensland, after which he started another 9 games. His form was impressive enough to warrant 13 consecutive starts with the team in 2006, before an injury in round 13 ended his season. Now, with a few matches under his belt, he is a likely contender for Merrick’s preferred 11.
Prior to joining the Victory, Piorkowski spent 4 seasons with the Melbourne Knights, making a total of 23 appearances. He also played regularly for the Qantas Young Socceroos, though a knee injury sustained with the Knights checked his career. It seems Piorkowski’s career has been darkened by injury.
Leijer’s departure paves the way for Piorkowski, who is dubbed as a left back by the Melbourne Victory website. I expect that he will slot into a left back position, pushing Joe Keenan, who offers speed in attack, into midfield.
Let’s just hope he doesn’t get injured again!
Read more about Daniel Piorkowski:
- Daniel Piorkowski on Wikipedia
- Profile on the Melbourne Victory website
- A tale of two defenders
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1 comment so far ↓
Daniel was a real performer last year. He was pinpoint in accuracy in his passing and really got the ball to others quickly. Unselfish players like Daniel are really hard to find. I would like him to be 15% more selfish and run more with the ball on occasions and mix it up with Kevin more. I think 2007 will be a watershed year for him and it may be his last year before he finds himself overseas if he stays on the park.
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