Nerang sign Gold Coast great John Costello for run towards Premier League finals

NERANG have landed a key blow in their Premier League finals mission with the addition of a Gold Coast great just two days before the close of the signing window.

NERANG have landed a key blow in their Gold Coast Premier League finals mission with the addition of veteran defender John Costello just two days before the close of the signing window.

A state league star with Palm Beach, Brisbane Strikers and Olympic in the 2000s, Costello on Friday lodged paperwork with Football Gold Coast to undertake his second mid-season comeback in as many years.

Having finished up at Surfers Paradise at the end 2017, the 34-year-old dusted off the boots late last season in an attempt to guide Palm Beach into the Premier League’s top four.

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While that effort proved unsuccessful, he will have the chance to make amends with the Eagles, who have a tenuous hold on the final playoff spot ahead of tomorrow’s 3pm trip to Surfers Paradise.

With just a couple of training runs under his belt, Costello will be a keen spectator at Lex Bell Oval before a likely stint in Nerang’s reserves to build match fitness.

Nerang signing John Costello in action for Surfers Paradise in 2017. Picture: Jerad Williams

“It will hopefully progress into some sort of (Premier League) role,” the Burleigh Heads junior, who has also spent time at Merrimac, said.

“Dave (Benigno, coach) knows what I can bring to a group. I went to training (on Thursday) and I got a better feel for the group and what the coaching staff are trying to achieve.

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“I have got a better idea of what my role will be in the group. It’s a role where I can help try and bring some structure to the defensive side, some communication and a little bit of mentoring of players within the squads.

“We have got a lot of young talent and that’s something Dave has identified that the players need to develop to be competitive. They have got all the pace and skills.

“I have had a lot of coaches over the years and Dave is one guy that’s so authentic that it just inspires me. That’s what I really hope I can do, just assist them in being a strong contender for that run home and into the finals.”

Benigno said Costello’s influence was “massive for any club or team”.

“What he brings to the table has always been class. Words can’t explain how he is starting to rub off on all of the young lads transitioning into senior football,” Benigno said.

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ROUND 15 GCPL FIXTURES

■ Saturday 2pm – Broadbeach United vs. Tweed United at Nikiforides Family Park

■ Saturday 3pm – Burleigh Heads vs. Palm Beach at Pizzey Park

■ Saturday 3pm – Coomera vs. Mudgeeraba at Viney Park

■ Sunday 3pm – Surfers Paradise vs. NErang at Lex Bell Oval