Football: Phoenix sign former Sydney striker

Wellington Phoenix have boosted their forward line by signing former Sydney FC striker Blake Powell. Photo / Getty Images.

Wellington Phoenix have boosted their forward line by signing former Sydney FC striker Blake Powell on a one year deal with the option of another year.

Powell, 24, has joined from Sydney club APIA Leichhardt Tigers and he scored 21 goals in 16 games for them in the New South Wales National Premier League last season.

He played in the Hyundai A-League for Sydney FC between 2012 and 2014 and he was part of their Asian Champions League squad.

Phoenix head coach Ernie Merrick told the club's website that Powell would fit into his squad well after impressing on trial during their trip to Fiji.

"Blake has the technical ability and speed and has had A-League experience with Sydney.

"His effort and commitment in Fiji was first class and he enjoys scoring goals, as shown by him being the leading goal scorer in the New South Wales National Premier League this season.

"He hasn't been signed as a number one striker and will have to earn his place, but I have a good feeling about him."

Powell will arrive in Wellington later this month but he'll have to wait until October for his return to the A-League.

"Ernie Merrick has given me another chance at that level and it is up to me to repay him by scoring goals, which is something I love doing," Powell said.

"I got to know the Phoenix boys on the pre-season trip to Fiji and they are a great bunch."

The Phoenix kick off their A-League campaign on October 11 at home to Newcastle Jets.