XtraTime Web Desk: FC Goa on Saturday announced the signing of Australian defender James Donachie on a one-year loan deal from A-League side Newcastle Jets. The center-back becomes the Gaurs’ 9th new signing ahead of the 2020/21 season.
Donachie, 27, is a three-time A-League champion with 2 of his triumphs coming in the colors of Brisbane Roar in the 2011/12 and 2013/14 seasons. He later went on to win it again as a part of Melbourne Victory in 2017/18.
Standing tall at 6’5”, Donachie not only brings height to the backline but also the rich experience of having played in the AFC Champions League. The Queensland native has already participated in the competition over 5 different editions which include each of the last three seasons – all with Melbourne.
Donachie expressed much delight after completing the move. Speaking to fcgoa.in, after putting pen to paper, the defender said, “I am thrilled to be coming to Goa and India. This should be a great opportunity and challenge for me. I will be playing for a club that’s not only looking to challenge for the title but will also be playing at the highest level in Asia – the AFC Champions League.
“I feel this move comes at the right time for me. I can’t wait to set sail to India and get on to the ground.”
Donachie was born and raised in Brisbane. Before joining Brisbane Roar’s youth program, he played junior football in Queensland and was awarded Australia’s Youth League Player of the Year for two consecutive seasons in 2010-11 and 2011-12. He had joined the A-League side in 2012 and his very first season saw him taste silverware as the Roars overcame Central Coast Mariners in dramatic fashion to clinch the title. He was also part of Brisbane’s title-winning side two years later.
Donachie finally made his first big move in 2016 when he signed for Melbourne Victory. He was with Victory till the end of last season except for a short six-month spell with the erstwhile K-League side Jeonnam Dragons in 2018. He moved back to Melbourne on loan later in January 2019 before making his move permanent last year in August.
He has been a key figure in the Melbourne defence during all his time at the club and was awarded the club’s Players’ Player of the Season award for his performances in 2019/20. He had signed on a three-year deal with Newcastle Jets earlier this year.