Josh Risdon Western United

IN 2019, Western United Football Club signed their first-ever player.

This was Josh Risdon, who would go onto become a United fan-favourite, on field for 90 matches.

But last week it was announced that Risdon would be leaving the club when this year’s Isuzu UTE A-League men’s season finishes.

“I remember our first home game out at Georgies, to our first home game in Tarneit, and everything in between,” he said.

“Our first win over in Wellington, the grand final, being able to captain this club… All those things will mean a lot.

“To be able to say I had a part in helping build what’s going on here makes me very proud, and is one I’ll be able to tell the grandkids.”

The right-back thanked all the United teammates he’s played and trained with over the last five years, the club’s admin staff, and the football department.

“To all the fans,” Risdon said. “You’ve been great for these five years, we’ve travelled to different places and you’ve always been there supporting us.

“I really appreciate the support you’ve given me and to the players.

“I wish nothing but the best for this club in the future and I’ll be watching on from afar.”

Risdon won United’s Player of the Season medal for 2022/23, and made history when he assisted the club’s first ever goal against Wellington Phoenix.

“As a foundation player of the club, Josh has played a significant role in our journey both as a person and as a footballer, and we are extremely proud to have him as a leading figure in our club’s history,” said Western United general manager of football, Mal Impiombato.

“His commitment on the pitch has been matched by his personality off it, and I am sure he has had a positive impact on every single person that he has interacted with at our club.

“On behalf of our football department and our entire club, I want to sincerely thank Josh for his contributions to Western United.

“I wish him and his family all the very best in the future, and they will always be welcome at Western United.”