South Melbourne FC is excited to announce the signing of Gavin De Niese for the 2017 NPL Victoria season.

The dynamic midfielder joins SMFC following a long spell at River Plate, playing in over 60 youth team matches and being a part of the senior squad at training.

Overall, De Niese was part of River Plate since he was 14 and spent six years at the Argentine giants before making the decision to return home to Australia and seek first team football. It was while trialling for Melbourne City, he ruptured his Anterior Cruciate Ligament and missed an opportunity to play in the A-League.

Fast forward and De Niese now finds himself at his new home, Lakeside Stadium, where he is ready to play a role for the club during the 2017 NPL season. He’s ability to play numerous roles throughout the midfield, allows for his inclusion to add more depth and versatility to Chris Taylor’s side.

Speaking to smfc.com.au, Football Director Nicholas Maikousis was excited with the inclusion of De Niese. “Gavin has spent a large part of the pre-season with the club and his attitude while coming back from injury has been outstanding. We believe that we are bringing in an extremely composed, experienced and creative midfielder who will compliment the players currently in the squad. Coming from a professional environment and big club in River Plate, we believe he is a perfect fit for us when fit and firing.”

We’d like to welcome Gavin for the 2017 season at Lakeside Stadium.