Tim Cahill welcomes fresh challenge at Melbourne City

Tim Cahill says he has been invigorated by signing for Melbourne City ahead of what will be his first appearance in his homeland.

The vastly-experienced front man, who has enjoyed spells in England, the U.S and China, only played at youth level in the old National Soccer League before joining Millwall as an 18-year old and is looking forward to a first taste of senior football in his native Australia. 

Cahill, who signed a two-year deal with Melbourne, said: "I didn't know I could feel like this again as a footballer but it's very special."

The 36-year-old is Australia's all-time leading scorer and spent eight successful years in the Premier League , but insists he is moving to a "massive club". 

"I knew when I walked through this door and when I got on the aeroplane that I'm going to have a great time," he told the club's official website. 

"It's going to be a big challenge but this is what happens when you join big clubs; and this is a massive club."