Sam Sutton Commits to Perth Glory in Three-Year Deal

PERTH, Australia (AP) — Perth Glory have secured the services of New Zealand international left-back Sam Sutton, who joins the club on a three-year deal after a decade-long spell at Wellington Phoenix.

The 23-year-old, a product of the Phoenix academy, clocked over 100 senior appearances for the Kiwi club, establishing himself as one of the A-League’s most reliable fullbacks. Last season, Sutton featured in 23 starts, recorded 30 tackles, 63 crosses, and chipped in with one goal and one assist.

Internationally, Sutton earned caps with New Zealand’s U-23 side before making his senior debut in the 2023 OFC Nations Cup, helping the All Whites clinch the regional title.

Now, Sutton is ready for a new challenge in Western Australia.

“I decided to sign for Perth for many reasons,” said Sutton. “I’ve visited the city several times—it’s my favourite in Australia. But more importantly, the vision and drive from [Head Coach] David Zdrilic and [Football Director] Stan Lazaridis made the decision clear for me.”

“Their ambition to win trophies mirrors my own. I’m eager to get started and believe in the squad we’re building to compete at the highest level.”

Lazaridis, a former Socceroo himself, was instrumental in landing the young defender.

“Sam is a player we’ve tracked closely,” said Lazaridis. “He brings tenacity, a strong engine, and a hunger to get forward and deliver dangerous balls into the box. At just 23, we believe he’s only just beginning to hit his prime.”

Sutton becomes one of the first major signings under Zdrilic’s rebuild as Perth aim to climb back into A-League contention.