Soccer: Jets add depth to striker stocks

Now the 24-year-old striker will get his chance in the A-League after signing a one-year deal with the Jets on Wednesday.

The tall front man spent a week on trial with the Jets earlier this month and scored a goal from a set piece in a 4-1 win over the Australian under-19s.

With Roy O’Donovan suspended, Sheppard, who came through the lower leagues in England, will add depth to the Jets attack.

“We brought him in on trial and he’s done exceptionally well,” Jets coach Ernie Merrick said. “Kaine performed strongly in two FFA Cup appearances this year and has been consistently good all season down in Victoria. He’s a clever player that reads the game well, makes great runs and has a strong physical presence – a really coachable player that I’m looking forward to working with this season.”

The English born striker has scored 20 goals in 26 appearances for Avondale this season. He returned to the club after a short stint in Finland’s top division at SJK where he did not score in seven appearances.

“I’m really happy to be given the chance to test myself again in a professional set-up,” Sheppard said.

“I’ve had some experience in a similar environment in Finland last year, and being able to dedicate myself to football will help me get the best out of myself as a player.

Joining the Jets is something which really excites me and I think I’ll benefit from playing under Ernie and the freedom he allows players in the final third.”

Sheppard played for Avondale against Sydney in the FFA Cup quarter-final on Wednesday night and will join the Jets after the Victorian National Premier League grand final against Heidelberg on Sunday.