New Sydney FC winger Joe Lolley ‘can’t wait’ to start his A-League career

Living near the beach and playing in the A-League looms as the perfect mix for Sydney FC recruit Joe Lolley.

Sydney FC’s English trio (from left) Joe Lolley, Jack Rodwell and Adam Le Fondre like to kick the ball around at Bondi Beach. Picture: Brendan Read

Life has been a beach for Joe Lolley since his arrival in Sydney, but that’s all about to change, and the former Nottingham Forest winger “can’t wait”.

Lolley, 30, is set to play a crucial role for Sydney FC in the new A-League season that starts on Friday night.

The Sky Blues, who are desperate to make amends for the a disappointing 2021-22 season, open their campaign on Saturday night against traditional rivals Melbourne Victory at the revamped Allianz Stadium.

Sydney FC’s English trio (from left) Joe Lolley, Jack Rodwell and Adam Le Fondre show their football skills at Bondi Beach, Picture: Brendan Read

“I’ve hear about the history of the game, and how it can be a ferocious atmosphere, so it’s a great game to open the season,” Lolley said.

“I can’t wait to get going. I’ve come in with a pretty open mind. I’ve been very impressed with the team we’ve got here and the training sessions we’ve put on. That bodes well for the season.”

Lolley has been equally as impressed with the Sydney lifestyle. Living no more than a “30-second walk” away from Bondi Beach helps.

“I’m loving it ... the nice coffees and brunches, so it’s a pretty chilled lifestyle outside of football,” he said.

“It’s a beautiful place to live, and I’m very lucky to do so.”

Lolley was also grateful for the way he had been made to feel at home by the entire Sky Blues squad, including fellow Englishmen Jack Rodwell and Adam Le Fondre.

“It’s been a really easy introduction here,” he said.

Originally published as New Sydney FC winger Joe Lolley ‘can’t wait’ to start his A-League career