WES Hoolahan dazzled for Norwich in the English Premier League and on the world stage for Ireland, and the evergreen midfielder is confident he has the game and the legs to make an impact in the A-League.
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At 37, Hoolahan is the oldest signing in the Jets' history after inking a one-year deal on Friday.
Though in the twilight of this career, the classy No.10 captained Norwich in the EPL less than two years ago.
Known as the Irish Messi for his diminutive frame and wizardry with the ball at his feet, Hoolahan called full-time on international duties in 2018, having earned 43 caps for Ireland, highlighted by a staring role at the 2016 European Championships.
"If you look after yourself, still have the belief and spirit to do well ... I think age is only a number," he said.
"Hopefully, I can show over here what I can do."
Hoolahan expects to hit the ground running and is likely to make his Jets debut in the FFA Cup clash against Edgeworth at Jack McLaughlan Oval on August 21.
Before flying to Australia, Hoolahan had been training with English lower-league side Cambridge United, where he was near the top in pre-season testing and featured in friendlies against Glasgow Rangers, Leicester and Ipswich.
He is yet to sit down with Ernie Merrick to discuss the coach's plans is confident of having a positive influence on and off the field.
"Hopefully I can bring some creativity and experience," he said. "It is like anything. You go to a team in the Championship or Premier League, you want to do well. You want to help the guys out. I'm up for a new challenge.
"Coming into a new dressing room is quite daunting. It's a bit like the first day of going back to school. But I can't wait."
Hoolahan, who was close to signing with Melbourne City last season, is familiar with the A-League and his new club.
"I know about the travel and the climate. I watched a few games, a bit of stuff from last year," he said. "I know they finished seventh, just outside the play-offs. The year before that they did really well ... hopefully we can get back there."
The silky-skilled playmaker was revered at Norwich, where he played 10 years, scored 54 goals and provided 78 assists in 351 appearances, including four seasons in the top flight.
He joined English Championship club West Bromwich Albion last season, making 10 appearances, and after more than a decade in the top two tiers in England was keen to complete his career abroad.h
"It is something I have always wanted to experience, whether it was America or Australia," he said. "I'm grateful for the opportunity the Jets have given me and hopefully I can repay their faith."
Hoolahan will be joined in Australia by wife Emma, son Noah, 7, and six-year-old daughter, Lottie.
"They will be here in about 10 days time," Hoolahan said. "They are very excited. It is obviously a big move and an opportunity for them to do something else here and experience life in Australia."
