It is just the latest in a string of honours the former paramedic has added to the list since arriving in New Zealand as a backpacker.
Riera joined the Wellington Phoenix from Auckland City ahead of the 2013-14 season and made such an impact he was named Wellington Phoenix Player of the Year.
Now he’s set to join the A-League’s best players against Juventus – a side boasting Italian legend Andrea Pirlo and the recently crowned 2014 FIFA World Cup™ Young Player, Paul Pogba of France.
“It is hard to believe. Pirlo has always been one of my idols. I think I will follow him everywhere and try and get his shirt,” he said after being told he would be facing his hero.
“This honour has come totally out of the blue. I was surprised to get the Phoenix Player of the year award after missing a lot of the season through injury…now this!”
Riera was a standout player for the Phoenix in the early and middle parts of the season before a serious groin injury side-lined him for the final three months.
The midfielder has been working hard to get back to fill fitness during pre-season training and said he’s feeling good.
“It has been tough but I feel I am now getting somewhere and am feeling better every day,” Riera said.
“I’m almost there and it is just a matter of getting my confidence back. Playing against West Ham United and Newcastle United is going to be exciting and after that is now Juventus. It is a great pre-season programme and should prepare us for a good A-League season.”
Also adding to the All Star contingent is New Zealand international and Central Coast Mariners defender Storm Roux.
It’s the first All Stars call-up for Roux, who enjoyed a breakout campaign under Phil Moss at the Mariners last season after joining from Perth Glory.
His stellar season saw him nominated for the Young Footballer of the Year award and while he didn’t pick up that honour, his inclusion in the All Stars squad is a fine consolation prize.
Match Details:
A-League All Stars vs. Juventus FC
Sunday, 10 August
ANZ Stadium, Sydney
Story courtesy of www.footballaustralia.com.au

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