Kewell rates Victory set-up second to none

Kewell rates the A-League club's training facilities and methods "second to none", and believes the talent of the players around him is such that the club deserves to be among the A-League title favourites.

"It's second to none really I can't believe the kind of set-up that's here," Kewell said.

"I've been at Galatasaray - the biggest club in Turkey - and it ain't a patch on what you've got here.

"Liverpool is one of the biggest clubs in the world. Yes, their set-up is good, but not as good."

Kewell also gave a glowing endorsement to new coach Mehmet Durakovic and his methods, believing he and his team-mates will start their A-League campaign with a win against Sydney FC at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.

"Stepping up into this team I was surprised. It's European training at its highest level, and as long as it continues I can't see this team struggling," kewell said.

Durakovic has praised Kewell's approach and overall physical condition since his arrival to a rock star welcome last month, and believes the Socceroos veteran's lack of match fitness is only a minor hurdle.

Durakovic will start Kewell behind the strikers against Sydney FC in a highly-anticipated showdown with the competition's other big draw card, Kewell's Socceroos team-mate Brett Emerton.

Costa Rican Carlos Hernandez has spared Durakovic a selection headache because he is away on international duty.

Durakovic is unlikely to play Kewell for the entire match as he looks to build the 33-year-old's match fitness.

"Physically he's in fantastic condition - maybe match fitness isn't there but he'll get there - he's been phenomenal," Durakovic said.

Club officials say a crowd of more than 40,000 is expected for Saturday night's match.

More than 900 guests attended the Victory In Business launch at Etihad Stadium, outlining the massive interest sparked by Kewell's arrival in Melbourne.