John Aloisi’s influence convinces Lachie Wales to extend his stay at Western United

Being coached by Socceroos great John Aloisi made it “easy” for Tokyo Olympian Lachie Wales to re-sign with Western United.

Lachie Wales (left) is performing well for Western United. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

Tokyo Olympian Lachie Wales says the influence of Socceroos legend John Aloisi made it an “easy decision” to sign a two-year contract extension with Western United.

Under the coaching of Aloisi. who took over in the off season following the departure of Mark Rudan, United has gone from A-League also-rans to title contenders.

“With John coming to the club, the culture that we’re trying to build here, you can already see what a difference it’s made on and off the pitch,” attacking weapon Wales said ahead of United’s clash against Sydney FC at AAMI Park on Wednesday night.

“He’s been massively important to me. He’s really believed in me, starting me every match.

“To have someone believe in you and give you confidence to express yourself every weekend is really important.

“He’s definitely someone I can learn off and play my best football with ... it was a pretty easy decision (to re-sign).”

Western United coach John Aloisi has enjoyed the form of Lachie Wales. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

Aloisi has tipped a bright future for the 24-year-old Wales.

“Lachie was always going to be a big part of my plans here and I’ve been so pleased with what he’s given us as a team this season,” Aloisi said.

“Off the pitch, his character, his attitude, the camaraderie and banter with the boys is just as important as his talent, which is obviously plentiful.

“He’s still very young and has a lot of improvement left in him, and I can’t wait to see that improvement happen right here with us at Western United.”

Wales, who has also had A-League stints with the Central Coast Mariners and Melbourne City, said Western United was “the place where I’ve been able to be myself the most”.

“I’m starting to play some good football here with the team, enjoying the club off the field as well with the friendships made, and on the field, the performances have been unreal,” he said.

“I’m hoping to win as many trophies as I can here. I think we’re in a good position with the coaching staff, players, the depth of players ... we should be pushing for every title in Australia.”

United faces a tough test against Sydney FC, who after a slow start to the season are unbeaten in their past five matches.

The teams met less than two weeks ago in a 1-1 draw at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.

Sydney’s new Dutch international signing, Luciano Narsingh, won’t be part of the Sky Blues match-day squad but is expected to make his A-League debut on Saturday against champions Melbourne City.

In Wednesday night’s other A-League matches, Newcastle Jets host Wester Sydney, and Perth Glory meets Macarthur FC in Launceston.

Originally published as John Aloisi’s influence convinces Lachie Wales to extend his stay at Western United