Tarek Elrich is returning to Wanderers after five years at Adelaide United

TAREK Elrich was one of three original signings for Western Sydney which won the Premier’s Plate a little more than a year after it was formed. Now after a five-year stint with the Reds, he is going back.

United's Tarek Elrich celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal. Photo Tom Huntley

TAREK Elrich will join his former club Western Sydney after Adelaide United confirmed his exit on Wednesday.

As revealed by The Advertiser in March the long serving Reds defender will return to Wanderers after five years at the Reds.

“I feel like I’ve achieved so much here at Adelaide United and had some of my greatest moments of my career with the club,” Elrich, 31, said.

“Obviously winning the inaugural FFA Cup with a great bunch of boys… and then to go on to win the double and play my bit that season I think that’s something special.

“I’ve made some great friends in Adelaide, it’s a great town.

“The people here are great, not to mention the Adelaide United fans as well – the Red Army especially.

“From day one they’ve been very supportive and I’d like to thank them for always being there for me.

“They’ll always hold a special part in my heart.”

Elrich played 114 games for Adelaide since earning a minimum wage one-year deal five years ago after former Wanderers boss Tony Popovic released him.

Elrich was one of three original signings for the club which won the Premier’s Plate in 2013, a little more than a year after it was formed.

During his time with Adelaide Elrich claimed the A-League’s goal of the year in 2015 and was also capped three times for the Socceroos.

Michael Marrone and Isaias are now the sole members of Adelaide’s 2016 A-League grand final side that took the field in the 3-1 win over Wanderers at Adelaide Oval.

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