Crook waits for ADP circus to subside

Former Italy international Del Piero is the biggest name to play in the A-League after opting to try his luck in Australia after 19 years with Italian champion Juventus.

Crook has already ruled the 37-year-old out of a possible final pre-season friendly against Newcastle Jets on Saturday but is hopeful he will be ready for the A-League opener away to Wellington on 6 October.

"It's always difficult at the beginning because everyone wants a little part of him which is fair enough," Crook said at the end of Del Piero's first training session.

"In time it will wane and we're certainly expecting it to be like a circus for a bit.

"But at end of it it's a fantastic addition for our game and our club.

"He's a great guy and he just wants to play. That's what he's here to do.

"Today he wasn't going to do a great deal yet he stayed and did the whole session which was good."

Crook confirmed Terry McFlynn would remain as captain of the side although Del Piero would definitely be a part of the club's leadership group.

Asked where the former Juventus star would play, Crook said it would be in the "number nine or 10 role".

"That's where he made his career," the Sky Blues boss said.

"I'm not going to go and re-adjust it now and turn him into something he isn't.

"I'll sit and speak to him but he'll certainly be in that front third."

Australia midfielder Jason Culina is still training with the Sky Blues as he recovers from a knee injury.

Crook said they would continue to monitor Culina's progress with a view to possibly signing him to play a part this season.