Duke’s transformation before sealing Saudi Arabia move
Socceroos striker Mitch Duke opens up about his incredibly rewarding time with Western Sydney Wanderers after sealing his move to Saudi Professional League side Al-Taawoun FC.
Mitch Duke returned to Australia last year to join Western Sydney Wanderers halfway through the 2018/19 season.
The Socceroos striker had spent the last four years in Japan playing for Shimizu S-Pulse but was eager to feature in the Hyundai A-League once again and add some much needed firepower to the Wanderers’ attack.
He saw Australia as the perfect fit for him to showcase his talent as he prepared to play in the Hyundai A-League for the first time since he departed the Central Coast Mariners in 2015.
“It was the perfect time for me to come back to Australia and I just wanted to show people what I can do and what I’ve learnt and how I’ve grown as a player and prove that I can still deliver on the big stage back home,” Duke told Socceroos.com.au.
“I had that belief that I was coming back here to do everything that I’ve done, so I’m pretty happy with how it’s turned out.”
“I think especially the four years in Japan grew me to be the leader that I am now.
“I’m also at an age now where I can influence other people. I’m going back to Australia with that mindset to lead and help and hopefully people just watching me are learning as well.”
From the outset he was a hit amongst the Wanderers’ faithful, scoring a consolation goal against the Jets on his debut before getting on the score sheet in three consecutive matches over the course of March.
The 29-year-old’s performances at the back end of the 2018/19 season didn’t go unnoticed and he was promoted to club captain the following campaign.
His fantastic form carried into the 2019/20 Hyundai A-League campaign as he notched a career high 14 goals from 26 appearances.
“Everything this campaign I was ready to take to the next level,” said Duke.
He led from example in crucial moments throughout the season with many of his goals arriving in high profile fixtures.
He weighed in with the decisive goal against fierce rivals Sydney FC in the first derby back in October while a pinpoint header in their second match-up secured back-to-back victories for his side.
Duke added another three to his tally when the competition resumed after the COVID-19 enforced break, with a goal against Perth Glory and a brace against Western United.
A new chapter awaits him in Saudi Arabia with Al-Taawoun who currently occupy 10th place in the 16 team competition while they are still involved in the AFC Champions League which is due to return in September.
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