Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Nikolai Topor-Stanley to the PFA Executive Committee.

The Western Sydney Wanderers captain joins the Executive with Socceroo Mark Milligan stepping down after three years on the committee.

Topor-Stanley’s appointment follows his long service as a delegate as well as having consistently demonstrated his leadership qualities on and off the pitch with his club.

PFA Chairman Craig Foster said he was delighted to welcome Topor-Stanley to the Executive Committee and thanked Milligan for his service.

“During his time on the Executive Committee Mark played a key role in number of the PFA’s significant achievements,” said Foster. “Mark will no doubt continue to be a driving force for Australian football on an off the pitch and I wish him and his family all the best for the future.

“We have been fortunate to have appointed some outstanding individuals to the PFA Executive in recent weeks and Nikolai is no exception,” said Foster.

“His leadership qualities are remarkable and admired by all. His passion and commitment to the players and the game will be invaluable as the PFA looks to ensure the continued growth of Australian football. The recent review highlighted the importance of experience as a delegate to an Executive position and many of our current committee have demonstrated this enduring commitment to their fellow professionals.”

Currently completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Science, Topor-Stanley said he was honoured to be joining the Executive.

“The decision to accept the role as a representative of my peers is not something that I made lightly,” said the Asian Champions League winner.

“Many of the legends of Australian football have served on the Executive. The challenge to build on their work is considerable, but one I’m determined to meet.

“Throughout my career I have experienced the highs and lows that all players go through and have seen the invaluable role that the PFA plays both individually and collectively in safeguarding the rights of Australia’s professional footballers.

“The potential of the game in this country is enormous and a strong PFA, acting as the voice of the players, is critical to achieving it.”

In accordance with the PFA Rules Topor-Stanley will fill a casual vacancy on the Executive and will be up for re-election in November at the Annual General Meeting.