Trio of young guns locked in

Trio signings

Melbourne Victory is pleased to announce it has re-signed exciting young trio Jay Barnett, Aaron Anderson and Birkan Kirdar.

Barnett’s new contract comes after he showed plenty of promise in both the A-League and AFC Champions League this year.

While Anderson and Kirdar, products of the club’s Academy system, made regular appearances in the navy-blue during the conclusion to the 2019/20 A-League season.


2020/21 membership banner

Head Coach, Grant Brebner, said it was pleasing to see the trio put pen to paper ahead of the upcoming 2020/21 A-League Season

“It is great news to have an exciting young group of players in Jay, Aaron and Birkan re-sign for the club,” Brebner said.

“Jay is talented, has a fantastic work ethic and hunger to improve. If Jay puts the time and energy into his development, he’ll continue to put his hand up for opportunities to play first team football.

“Both Aaron and Birkan are local boys and a product of the Academy program at Melbourne Victory. They understand the way we want to play our football and the responsibility which comes with pulling on the Victory shirt.

“All three are extremely driven and I’m looking forward to them creating competition for spots and working hard over the coming weeks as we prepare for the Champions League and the new A-League season.”

Barnett said he was excited to pull on the navy blue for a further two seasons.

“It’s a great feeling to have signed with Victory for two more years. I’ve enjoyed my time here so far and definitely improved as a player,” Barnett said.

“The size of the club and the supporter base is massive. The members and fans are amazing and playing in front of big crowds really gives the boys and myself a huge lift.

“Team success is what we all play for and we really want to push hard to improve to win titles and trophies for our members and fans.”

Anderson said it was a great feeling to recommit to the club.

“It’s exciting to re-sign with the club, and I’m really happy I get the opportunity to continue to develop my career and play under Brebs,” Anderson said.

“Representing the club last season really fuelled my hunger to improve, and now I’ve had a taste of senior football I’m going to do everything I can to hold onto my spot.”

Kirdar also said he was excited to continue to develop under Brebner.

“Brebs has been my coach for a number of years now, so it will be good to continue to grow and improve as a player under him,” Kirdar said.

“The club has supported me and given me an opportunity to play senior football and I’m committed to working hard and repaying the faith they have shown in me.”

Jay Barnett #26:
19-years old
Central Midfielder
A-League games – 12

Aaron Anderson #31:
19-years old
Central Defender
A-League games – 4

Birkan Kirdar #13:

18-years old
Central Midfielder
A-League games – 6
Australia U17 World Cup Squad