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Perth Glory rush new signing Joel Chianese into their squad for A-League clash with Newcastle Jets

Nick TaylorThe West Australian
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Joel Chianese has returned to the Perth Glory.
Camera IconJoel Chianese has returned to the Perth Glory. Credit: TRAVIS ANDERSON/AAPIMAGE

Perth Glory have strengthened their squad with the return of forward Joel Chianese as they battle to stop the form slump that has left them struggling to make an A-League finals spot.

They have rushed Chianese, 31, who has returned from a season with Indian Premier League club Hyderabad, straight into the squad for tomorrow’s must-win clash with fellow strugglers Newcastle Jets in Coffs Harbour.

Perth Glory forward Joel Chianese controls the ball.
Camera IconPerth Glory forward Joel Chianese controls the ball. Credit: Icon Sportswire/Getty Images

Chianese made 87 A-League appearances in a four-season stint at Glory.

“I’m really excited to be able to finish the season with Glory,” he said

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“I’ve had a great history at this club and I’m looking forward to help us push towards the finals again.”

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Coach Richard Garcia said his signing was a major boost in a tough schedule.

“We know all about Joel’s ability and what he brings to the side on and off the field,” Garcia said.

“His return increases the strength in depth and level of experience which will be a major boost as our hectic schedule, including the five home games in 16 days, continues.”

Chianese became a fan favourite after scoring the winning penalty in the 2019 semifinal shoot-out against Adelaide United that sent Glory to their first A-League championship final in seven years.

It was only the second penalty he had taken - the first was 16 years earlier for the Blacktown City under-13s - and that time he hit the post.

Meanwhile, 21-year-old forward Carlo Armiento who signed from Adelaide United last year, is relishing the attention he has been receiving in recent games.

He was the target for heavy treatment in the controversial 1-0 loss to Sydney and should have been awarded a penalty when brought down by Paulo Retre in a two footed-tackle.

Phoenix’s Te Atawhai Hudson-Wihongi clashes with Glory’s Joel Chianese.
Camera IconPhoenix’s Te Atawhai Hudson-Wihongi clashes with Glory’s Joel Chianese. Credit: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

Armiento, still showing bruises from the clash, said: “It was physical game...a good battle.

“Every game there’s always going to be one of those players. I like it. It’s a bit of a challenge.

“If they come to me Bruno (Fornaroli), Andy (Keogh) or one of the other blokes will be free.

“The forward third, Richie (Garcia) likes me to go there and express myself.

“He likes me to take the ball up the pitch, run at defenders.

“They are going to try and take me down or if I get past them I can hopefully set up whoever’s there.

“It’s the first year that I have had consistent game time and I’m loving it under Richie.”

Armiento is confident Glory can they arrest the slide that has seen them with just one win in eight games.

“Every game is a must win but we are confident,” he said.

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