Brisbane Roar has strengthened its attacking weapons for the upcoming 2025-26 A-League season by signing English striker Chris Long. Long is a 30-year-old forward and has a mix of experience in English and Scottish football that could be and should be very important to the Roar’s upcoming season.
Chris Long in the A-League
Chris Long, a graduate of Everton FC’s academy, has had a long and storied career on the UK football landscape. Most recently, he played four years with Crewe Alexandra in the English Football League.
He has also played for some of the larger clubs in the English game, including Burnley, Brentford, MK Dons, Fleetwood Town, Bolton Wanderers, Blackpool, Northampton Town, and Scottish side Motherwell.
Roar Coach Michael Valkanis Commends Chris Long’s Qualities
Brisbane Roar head coach Michael Valkanis revealed his excitement over the new signing by saying:
“Chris is a highly experienced footballer who boasts a keen eye for goal, creativity in the box and a strong turn of pace that will make him an extremely strong addition to the squad,” Roar coach Michael Valkanis said.
“We look forward to welcoming Chris to the club and squad as we continue to build for the new campaign.”
Valkanis added that Long’s attributes are just what the Roar needs in their attacking game plan for next season.
One-Year Deal with Big Expectations
Chris Long signed a one-year contract with the Brisbane Roar and will fly into Queensland in the next few days. It is yet to be determined whether he will be available for next week’s exhibition match against Auckland FC, but fans are excited to see him in action.
Chris Long Relished Starting A-League Adventure
The former England youth international expressed his feelings over his transfer to the A-League as follows:
“I know I’m joining a club that has big ambitions for the upcoming season,” he said.
“I can’t wait to get going, meet my teammates, and most importantly, pull on that jersey and give my all for the fans.”
Part of a Strengthened Roar Attack
Chris Long becomes a new attacking threat for Brisbane Roar alongside forward Michael Ruhs, marking a declaration of the club’s drive to strongly compete this season. The two are likely to add energy and scoring punch to the frontline.
In other A-League news: Al Hassan Toure signs with Sydney FC
Elsewhere in transfer news, Sydney FC has announced the signing of Al Hassan Toure, a former Adelaide United and Macarthur FC player. Toure has penned a two-year contract and is eager to make his mark.
“I am very happy and grateful to sign for such a big club,” Toure said.
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“Sydney FC is a great club with great players, fans and history. I can’t wait to get started.”
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