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CPL HFX Wanderers FC

HFX Wanderers FC Unveil South American Attacking Duo

February 25, 2019 - Canadian Premier League (CPL)
HFX Wanderers FC News Release


Halifax, N.S. - On the verge of HFX Wanderers FC's preseason training, the club are making an international splash, with the signings of two South American talents.

Colombian striker Luis Alberto Perea and attacking midfielder Juan Diego Gutierrez from Peru, are being reunited as an attacking one-two punch with the Wanderers.

They formed a formidable partnership when they were teammates at Deportivo Universidad San Martin in Peru.

"I'm very happy we have been able to sign these players. They already know each other well," said Wanderers head coach Stephen Hart. "One as a striker and one as a creator and I think they will relish the fact they are together once again, in a team that will allow them to bring their qualities."

Hart points to their "vast experience" as a major plus, with Perea nearing 100 professional goals, having scored wherever he has played, which includes six different South American countries and one in central America.

"It's the first time for this league and being from Colombia for me it's a huge accomplishment," said 32-year-old Perea, from Medellin. "I hope I can be a leader and an example for the league and my teammates. I'm really excited."

Gutierrez, who is 26 and from Lima, also has an illustrious resume including playing for Peru's biggest club, Universitario de Deportes, as well as building his experience in Europe, where he played for teams in Denmark and Sweden.

"I can't wait to be there, it's a dream. I know the Canadian Premier League will be great for me and for Halifax. It's a new start to grow together."

The duo were brought to Hart's attention through his extensive international contacts of scouts and coaches.

"I watched a lot of their games and they were very interesting to me," he said. "Perea is a classic number nine who holds the ball up well and can also run in behind and can finish with his head and both feet."

Gutierrez also oozed quality in the games Hart watched, demonstrating "pinpoint passing and crossing" and an ability to score goals, as well as the confidence to play in both wide positions or in the number 10 role.

"He's unpredictable and can do something out of the ordinary and as a coach you always look for players who can surprise and be inventive," Hart said.

Both players are signing pending the completion of an international transfer certificate and will report to the Wanderers for preseason training in March.

The Wanderers Canadian Premier League debut is on April 28 against Pacific FC on Vancouver Island.

The club's home opener will be the following weekend on May 4 against Hamilton's Forge FC.

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