Midfielder Matthew Ntoumenopoulos says he is “tremendously appreciative” to Inglewood United for providing him the opportunity to reignite his football career.   The 21-year old playmaker linked up with Inglewood early last year following a sixteen-month absence from the game brought on by a serious knee injury.

Ntoumenopoulos went on to be one of the star performers of the 2017 National Premier Leagues, playing a key role in Inglewood placing second in the league and making 26 appearances across all competitions.   His desire to play professionally has now taken him to Port Melbourne, where he hopes to catch the eye of an A-League club or two.

“One of my goals is to be playing in the A-League and I believe the Victorian NPL provides another stepping stone to challenge myself as a player, improve my understanding of the game and opens up another window to get recognised across Australia,” Ntoumenopoulos, a former Australia youth international, said.

“It was a difficult decision to leave Inglewood as the coaching staff gave me the belief to get back to my best form after a lengthy time away from the game.   I believe all a player can do is provide as much value to their club as they can and if everyone works together something special can happen.”

“Last year Inglewood went agonisingly close to finishing top of the league (and) it was devastating getting that close.   I’m sure the boys will learn from that experience and, hopefully, they’ll go one better this year.   As a club Inglewood has been extremely supportive and I’m tremendously appreciative for the effort that they put into me.”

Ntoumenopoulos has started the next chapter in his football career on a positive note.   “I’ve been with Port Melbourne only a few weeks, however, I have been able to fit in nicely with the new team and build some chemistry with the group,” he said.   “This will be my first season in Victoria, I am very excited to get started!”