Sunderland have picked up a 'bargain' in defender Nectarios Triantis, according to Australia assistant head coach Tony Vidmar. The Black Cats have confirmed the deal for 20-year-old Triantis, after agreeing terms with Central Coast Mariners.
The centre-back helped his team win the A-League Grand Final by defeating Melbourne City on Sunday in what was his last game for the Mariners. The Australia U20 international is expected to step up to the U23 side - coached by former Middlesbrough and Leeds United man Vidmar - this summer for the Maurice Revello Tournament. And Vidmar is a big admirer of the youngster.
"Nectarios now, even in early camps with the 20s joining with Trevor [Morgan, Australia U20 boss], having a look at those players and then also seeing how he's performed this season, it hasn't surprised me," Vidmar told ESPN Australia.
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"I felt that the opportunity that he's been given by Central Coast Mariners to play every week and cement himself in that starting eleven was always going to be challenging. But he has all the attributes to be a very good central defender.
"He never shirks a tackle, is a tough, tough guy in those one-on-one situations and is a player who's very comfortable on the ball. I think he’s a team-mate that you want in and amongst your group, he comes out as a fantastic individual, and that’s what you want.
"He's very well rounded. If Sunderland do sign him I think they've got a bargain there."
