Beau set to jet out

THE MANLY DAILY

By John Greco

MANLY United's Beau Busch may have played his last game for the club with the impressive defender reportedly on the verge of a deal with A-League champions Newcastle.

The 24-year-old centre-back is currently in Perth with the Jets as they prepare for their Pre Season Cup opener against the Glory this afternoon.

It's understood Busch, who has trained regularly with the Jets over the past 18 months, is close to a deal which could eventuate as early as next week.

While quick to play down the link Busch, a Newcastle junior, is aware a good performance against Perth today will only help to secure his dream deal.

"It's a great opportunity for me," Busch said.

"But I don't want to get too far ahead of myself.

"I just have to play well and hopefully something might happen next week.

"I just want to get some game time (today) and we'll see what happens.

"I'm looking forward to it."

United coach Phil Moss said his rock-solid central defender deserved an opportunity at the next level.

"His performances have been exceptional the last two years," the Manly boss said.

"He's got an opportunity there and I hope he takes it.

"I've always thought Beau was an A-League player of the future.

"He's only been at state league level for two years but I think he's the type of player that if you put him in that environment he will rise to that level very quickly."

Meanwhile United teenager Chris Payne gets another opportunity to showcase his undoubted ability when he lines up for Sydney FC in their pre-season opener against Queensland tonight.

With Socceroo striker John Aloisi still absent and Mark Bridge on his way to China with the Olympic team, the 17-year-old will again lead the attack against the Roar in Campbelltown.

United under-20s midfielder Chris Van Leur will start off the bench for Sydney.

Van Leur comes into the Sydney squad for Joey Schirripa who is missing with a knee injury.

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Article Source http://www.manlydaily.com.au/article/2008/07/19/11163_sports.html