Thompson tip swayed Huysegems

Huysegems, 30, has played for Dutch first division clubs Feyenoord and FC Twente and played 15 times for Belgium, his last appearance coming in 2009.

He has played in the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Cup and says he turned down an offer from a club in Ukraine to join Wellington after seeking advice from Thompson after the pair played together for Belgian side Lierse.

"He said the A-League was growing and it was a good opportunity for me to play here," Huysegems said.

"I spoke with Archie about what the level was, and he said `if you have a chance to go there, you have to do it because I know your qualities, and I think you can be a good player for the A-League'.

"Physically, it's a good league and everybody works hard, and it's still growing. The last years, it's been getting better and better."

Huysegems augments his role as a traditional hard-working centre forward with good pace and the flexibility to play out wide or as a deep striker.

Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert says the 1.86m frontman has an excellent pedigree and offers plenty of options.

"He can probably play either side of a front two, or he could play wide in a front three," he said.

"He'll fit in here perfectly - he has a good presence and will add a different dimension to the side."