Promotion favourite Josh Markovski returns to the Royals

Essendon Royals are delighted to announce the return of club favourite Josh Markovski for the 2026 VPL2 season.

Markovski was part of the Royals side who were promoted from State League One North-West in 2022, before going on to play top-flight NPL for Altona Magic and Port Melbourne Sharks.

The forward most recently lined up for Werribee City in the second half of 2025, helping the Bees escape the drop in a tightly-fought relegation battle.

“It was a great year to be involved,” reflects Markovski on his previous stint at Cross Keys.

“The club’s great, the facilities are great as well, so hard to say no when the opportunity arose [again].”

Markovski is keen to impart his top-flight experience, especially on the young brigade in the senior squad.

“Just making sure the culture is really good, because I think that’s a major part in any good side.

“Being able to bring the boys together and push through for a result is one of the main takeaways.”

Markovski is already working hard on the training track to get in tip-top shape for the new year.

“I don’t think anyone enjoys preseason!” he laughs.

“But you’ve got to do it. We’ve got the older boys leading the charge, and the younger boys pushing the older boys.” 

Markovski joins Michael Romas, Anthony Trajkoski, Zac Kocankovski, Lucas Alessi, and Ben Bowler among the new arrivals in Michael Ferrante’s squad.