Gold Coast United midfielder Justyn McKay re-signs for 2020 NPL campaign

GOLD Coast United’s busy off-season recruitment and retention drive continues after securing another big name for the 2020 NPL campaign.

THE chance to play a role in the development of the region’s rising talent continues to drive Justyn McKay after agreeing to play on with Gold Coast United in next year’s NPL.

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Hampered by injury in 2019 after joining United from the Gold Coast Knights, the 33-year-old midfielder was still influential across 19 appearances as the Surfsiders finished seventh.

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McKay and fellow veteran Michael Thwaite were the guiding forces in coach Kristian Rees’ youthful United side and with his Soccer X academy closely aligned with the club, the Englishman said he needed little convincing in agreeing to return in 2020.

“I’m really pleased to have signed for another year,” McKay, who works alongside new United signing Sam Smith, said.

Gold Coast United midfielder Justyn McKay (right) in action against Easts in the 2019 NPL. Picture: Craig Clifford

“GCU’s philosophy and culture aligns with mine and with my academy, Soccer X, and so far that’s complimented one another well and I look forward to continuing developing our working relationship this year and helping improve the game for junior players across the Coast and Northern Rivers.

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“I enjoyed the 2019 season and even at my age I learnt a lot from Kris, Ozzie (assistant coach Matt Osman) and Thwaitey. They have created a positive culture to play and that’s why we are attracting players such as Sam Smith.

“I’m looking forward to playing alongside Sam again. We work together every day and have a good relationship, so hopefully we can take that onto the pitch.

McKay celebrates a goal against Moreton Bay United. Picture: Craig Clifford

“He will be a great addition to us and him and Brandon (Reeves) will be a handful for any defence in the NPL.”

With Thwaite last week recommitting to the club, Rees said McKay was “another big re-signing for us”.

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“He was troubled by injury this season but still managed to have an impact in and around the playing group,” Rees said.

“When he played, our performances lifted due to his enthusiasm and his ability to snuff out opposition attacks and create quick turnaround that puts us on the front foot.”