Ucchino ready to rock at APIA

AS the saying goes ‘a change is as good as a holiday’.

New APIA Leichardt signing Adrian Ucchino will be hoping there is plenty of truth to that with his off season transfer hopefully the catalyst for his biggest PS4 National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s 1 campaign.

Despite three successful years under Brian Brown at Bonnyrigg, Ucchino said the time was right for a change of scenery.

“I have been lucky to have played in a successful Bonnyrigg side for the past few seasons,” He said.

“After my time with Sydney FC I was without a club and it was Bonnyrigg who signed me and gave me a shot. 

“At the end of last season I was approached by Tony Raciti to play for APIA and I really liked his ambition for the club.”

“There is a great vibe at the club and I felt it was time for a fresh start.”

Ucchino is set to play a big role in the Lambert Park side’s chances this season alongside Blake Power and the mercurial Franco Parisi.

Playing in primarily a holding role during the preseason, the former Sydney FC player says he feels more at home at the base of the midfield.

“Holding midfield is my preferred position so it has been great for my game to get the chance to play there week in and week out,” Ucchino said.

“At Bonnyrigg I was deployed a little further up the field which I enjoyed but it has been good to drop back to a position I’m a little more comfortable with.

“At the end of the day the coach makes the calls and I’m happy to fill whatever role he has set out for me.”

Promising preseason cup form has Ucchino confident of a big season from his new team.

“I have been really impressed with how the boys have played so far,” he said.

“Our preparation has been great and everyone is hitting their stride just in time for round one.

“There are some really exciting players in this squad and I’m really confident we’ll be able to push the top teams.”