Reportedly unhappy in China at struggling newly promoted Super League outfit Dalian Aerbin, the 32-year-old, who switched to Asia in February after making 63 appearances for 2011-2012 grand finalist Perth Glory, is a close friend of new coach Tony Popovic.

And it's believed that tentative contact has been made with Sterjovski, who has played 10 of 11 games this season for his new club which sits just a point off the relegation places.

Sterjovski is barely four months into a 10-month deal in China, where the season concludes in November, and it's understood his family is unsettled there.

Also high on the wish list of Popovic is veteran keeper Clint Bolton who is out of contract at Melbourne Heart and is keen to return to the city where he spent five seasons with Sydney FC, before being surprisingly cut loose.

Bolton's likely Melbourne exit looks set to open to the door to fellow veteran Ante Covic at Heart, after he was released by Melbourne Victory. Covic, 36, has also been closely watched by Popovic.

Defender Shannon Cole, who has just been released by Sydney FC, is also close to agreeing terms with Western Sydney.

Italy's FIFA World Cup winning left-back Fabio Grosso is also interested in coming to the A-League and after pricing himself out of a possible move to Melbourne Victory has indicated that Western Sydney would also interest him.

However, the 34-year-old, is unlikely to figure in the plans of a club whose executive chairman Lyall Gorman has already indicated he will not be splashing significant amounts of cash on overseas marquees.

Grosso, said of his collision with Lucas Neill in a 2006 FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash with the Socceroos, which sealed Australia's fate in a 1-0 loss as Francesco Totti dispatched the spot-kick: "Maybe I accentuated it a little bit."

"However you must remember it was the last minute of an extremely difficult game and everyone was tired."

Gross, 34, was released by Juventus last year. His other career stops include Palermo, Perugia, Inter Milan and French powerhouse Lyon.

It's believed the second Sydney club may only use 85 per cent of its stipulated $2.6 million salary cap in its debut A-League season.

Meanwhile, Ian Crook is set to make his third signing since taking charge at Sydney FC with the likely arrival of journeyman Adam Griffiths.

Most recently with Chinese Super League Hangzhou Greentown, utility Griffiths, 32, has already featured in the A-League for Newcastle Jets, Gold Coast United and Adelaide United.

He won the 2007-2008 championship with the Jets and has also had spells in England with Brentford, Bournemouth and Watford and in Saudi Arabia with Al-Shabab.

The Brazilian, whose full name is Fabio Alves Macedo, is coach Ian Crook’s second signing of the week after securing the services of Iraqi international Ali Abbas on Monday.

Fabio impressed during a recent trial and will officially join the club once visa requirements are finalised.

"I am very happy to be signing for Sydney FC," said Fabio.

"It’s a great opportunity for me and I’m going to repay the belief the coach Ian Crook has shown in me.

The 27-year old left-back arrives after a season playing for Melbourne Victory and is excited about playing in front of Sydney FC’s fans.

"I know that Sydney FC have a great fan base, especially the Cove, and I want to show them I am 110% committed to the club.

"I hope to help Sydney FC win the A-League championship and I can see we are building a squad capable of doing that."

Crook believes the signing of the Brazilian will bring a boost to the squad.

"He’s technically very good and good on the ball which fits into our possession based game. He feels as though he has a point to prove, so he has a lot of hunger as well."

Though he pulled out at Christmas for family reasons, Tana, whose vision and cash provided Perth Glory with the platform for two championships in the old NSL before he quit the game in 2006, dismissed swipes by former national team heavyweights Rale Rasic and Ray Richards that the franchise is deeply flawed.

Tana is convinced the fledging entity has the potential to catapult itself to the top of the Australian football landscape despite the short lead in time and having, for now, FFA as its sole backer.

"Western Sydney is a strong and lucrative franchise waiting to happen," Perth-based poultry producer Tana told The World Game.

"It’s a matter of how much horse power and resources FFA throws at it. Ideally, it needed a little more time to get it just right but it’s all relative – if FFA throws the money at it, of course it will work. You can move a mountain in no time if you are prepared to chuck everything at it.

"The budgets I had in mind for the operation would have required a longer lead-in time, we were aiming to enter the competition in 2013-2014, but things have changed and it can, and I am sure, will be a huge success.

"It’s important to remember though that while the club will have a huge connection with the people of the region it’s not going to be about profit margins. Anybody who’s been involved in football will tell you; this game is not about making money."

Rasic, who led Australia to the 1974 World Cup, said in The Australian newspaper that the project, yet to reveal its home, name or colours and due to enter the competition in five months, was a "bad business decision by the FFA".

He added: "How can you expect to get a club running in five months ... it's suicidal. I don't know what they are thinking."

Richards, who played in the region and has run businesses in the west for more than 40 years, was also scathing, telling the newspaper: "In my opinion, west Sydney is a knee-jerk reaction. They need a 10th team to shore up their television rights deal.

"How can FFA establish a club in less than five months when just about all of the other club models have failed after seven years?"

Tana, who still attends every Perth Glory home game and owns the club’s nib Stadium home, is convinced the groundswell of backing for the second Sydney team among the people of the west is irresistible.

"In terms of the families out there, it’s just busting and burning and ready to happen," he added.

Though the new club’s executive chairman Lyall Gorman has said that coach Tony Popovic is unlikely to be given the largesse to land a big name marquee, Tana is convinced the lack of an international talisman will not turn off would-be fans.

"Don’t underestimate the value of local players in terms of what the western Sydney passion for the game is," he added.

"The locals want to see home-grown talent flourish. When I first started Perth Glory we had predominantly local players. We had only two outsiders initially and they came from the eastern states, not overseas.

"The crowd will follow their own. But the club has to mature with the crowd and with the game. In time they will need to get results of course. But initially get the thing going and in a marketing sense look after the fans and the sponsors and it’s still a recipe and a formula for success."

Tana insists he came close to funding the project himself, adding: "I had talks with Ben Buckley and the desire was there but with my youngest having a child, the fact I’m building a new home and doing a pile of other things I just didn’t think I could devote the time that was required.

"To do it correctly I needed to be there two weeks in every month and that just wouldn’t have been possible. I wish the team all the luck in the world and the best wishes. A second Sydney team needed to happen."

Tana believes the sooner FFA attracts other backers on board the better, adding: "That has to be a priority going forward.

"At the end of the day, it needs to be a club owned by the people. The pain needs to be felt by the people and so does the enjoyment and the passion. And so ownership by the people is crucial."

He derides Richards's conclusion that the club is being rushed into the league to shore up a looming TV rights deal predicated on a 10-tream competition.

"There’s a lot more to this than just a TV deal," he added.

"It may be a factor. What percentage? I say minimal. I’ve always said that the A-League needs two teams in Melbourne and two in Sydney. Well, now it has that."

In a statement, the club thanked the versatile player who joined from Adelaide United in April 2007. Kemp made 79 appearances for Victory, his last being against Greek giant Olympiacos. During his time, Kemp won the Premiership/Championship double in 2008/09 as well as an international cap against Kuwait, during the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers in 2010.

“I’d like to thank the club for those opportunities and wish them all the best in the future,” Kemp said.

Kemp also wanted to be clear that injuries weren’t a factor in his decision. “I could have continued playing, but my decision was more based on the future. I felt it was time to look ahead, re-train in areas that will provide future professional opportunities and most importantly, give me a chance to spend more time with my family,” he added.

Managing Director, Richard Wilson said: “We thank Kempy for what he has brought to our club and wish him and his family all the very best for the next phase of their lives.”

Kemp is the latest player to leave the club under recently installed coach Ange Postecoglou. Fellow veterans Carlos Hernandez, Grant Brebner and Ante Covic have already been released.

Heart on Tuesday released a statement announcing that Milicic, who had been overlooked for the head coaching role at the club in favour of the less-experienced John Aloisi, had accepted an assistant position under Tony Popovic at the new western Sydney outfit.

"While obviously disappointed to see Ante leave, we understand the significance of the opportunity which presented itself in helping establish a team in his home town," Heart CEO Scott Munn said.

But while an official announcement by the as-yet unnamed west Sydney club is expected in the coming days, Gorman says Heart has jumped the gun.

"There has been no official announcement from us for one reason - and that's because he certainly hasn't signed an agreement with us at this stage," Gorman told AAP on Tuesday.

"You've seen plenty of speculation around that but I can assure you as we speak now he has not signed an agreement with us.

"He is a remarkable coach and I think he would be a perfect fit for this club but I can assure you that there is no agreement signed."

Speculation has also been rife about who will be the club's eagerly awaited first player signing and with the team's emphasis on incorporating local figures, Harry Kewell - arguably the region's biggest football export - has been thrown into the mix.

"Harry is very advanced in his discussions with Melbourne Victory and we've had no dialogue with him," Gorman said.

"We don't plan on getting into competition with Victory about his signing.

"We'll speak to any player who expresses an interest to become a part of the new west Sydney club ... and if Harry fell into that category we'd be naive not to have discussions with him."

Gorman revealed the new club had been "inundated with interest from players nationally and internationally" but fans should not expect any big names.

"We're certainly not building a club around one or two players, we're just as likely to announce an under-19 local player first as a 28-year-old experience player," Gorman said.

"We're not building our squad around a marquee player ... we won't be putting the spotlight on any one individual."

Meanwhile Newcastle Jets on Tuesday announced a major cleanout of its board with four members - Neil Jameson, Keith Harris, Cheryl Salisbury and Joe Senkalski - moving on while Ray Baartz will retain his role as chairman.

Socceroos great Ray Baartz will retain his role as advisory board chairman but Matildas legend Cheryl Salisbury, jornalist Neil Jameson, Keith Harris and ex-Socceroos player Joe Senkalski will no longer be involved.

Jets CEO Robbie Middleby thanked the outgoing advisory board members, with Baartz to help identify new board members.

"With the changing times and new challenges, we are looking to take the Club in a new direction," Middleby said.

"The Jets are supported by an experienced coaching, medical and commercial team who are working on an overall business plan for the successful growth of the Club into the 2012/13 season and beyond.

"We would like to thank Neil, Keith, Cheryl and Joe for their contribution and dedication over the past 18 months.

"We look forward to Ray's continued support and expertise as our Chairman, and in time, welcoming new Board members to the Jets."

Newcastle has been quite active in the transfer market since the end of the A-League season with coach Gary van Egmond adding James Brown, Scott Neville, Adam Taggert, Craig Goodwin, Mark Birighitti and Joshua Brillante.

Kasey Wehrman Jeremy Brockie, Tarek Elrich, Ali Abbas, Francis Jeffers and Byun Sung-hwan are already gone with others, like Labinot Haliti and Mario Simic, expected to follow.

As the attacking midfielder eagerly awaits Adelaide's knockout clash with Japan's Nagoya Grampus in the AFC Champions League's round of 16, he said rumours he could join Brisbane were wide of the mark.

"I'm under contract with Adelaide United and as of now I am an Adelaide player so there is no truth in the speculation," the 25-year-old said.

"I'm not going anywhere and there is nothing to it at the moment.

"I'm happy with Adelaide and I'm enjoying my football. It's going well."

Vidosic also rejected whispers that he has a troubled relationship with Reds coach John Kosmina, who has more than once stated the club's Australian marquee has two years to run on his deal and is a necessary player.

"I've got no problem with John Kosmina, either," Vidosic declared.

"Everything's fine, it's all good.

"Nobody likes to lose especially in professional sport but we're playing some good football now and getting results and that changes everything."

Vidosic's perceived difficulties with Kosmina in his first season in the A-League sparked speculation that he wanted out of the club.

The rumours intensified when his father Rado was appointed Roar coach at the end of the season to replace Ange Postecoglou, who joined Melbourne Victory.

Speculation reached fever pitch when playmaker Marcos Flores, whose stellar first season in Australia earned him the 2011 Johnny Warren Medal before he joined China's Hanan Jianye, expressed an interest in returning to the A-League, prompting pundits to tip a Flores return to Adelaide and Vidosic to link up with Brisbane.

Vidosic said his most immediate concern was next Tuesday's one-off clash with Australia striker Josh Kennedy's Nagoya, which clinched second spot in its group by beating Central Coast Mariners 3-0 on Matchday 6 last week.

"We are playing against a very good team, which is one of the best in Asia but we have had a good run to finish top of our group so we are quietly confident of doing the job, especially if we get a full house at Hindmarsh,” he said.

"It should be a very entertaining game and one that we are all looking forward to.

"We have a trial game against a local team on Wednesday night and from Friday we will start working on the Nagoya game.

"We watched Nagoya's two games against the Mariners but we have to worry about our game plan and if we can defend well and attack well we'd have a good chance of making the quarter-finals."

Adelaide has rediscovered its mojo in the ACL after it failed miserably in the A-League, finishing second bottom.

"There were times when we did not perform well but there were others when we played well and lost," Vidosic said.

"Defence wise we have been solid but in attack we have not been able to take our chances.

"It does not matter who you are. You can be Barcelona but if you do not take your chances you get punished.

"Look what happened to Bayern Munich at the weekend. They had enough chances to win three Champions League finals but they ended up losing. That's football."

Adelaide clinched first place in its group by beating Gamba Osaka 2-0 last week and Kosmina declared upon the team's return from Japan that he was toying with the idea of playing with two strikers against Nagoya.

That would see Sergio Van Dijk starting the match alongside Bruce Djite, who has been in exceptional form as the lone striker during the entire Asian campaign.

It is a move that Vidosic would greet with open arms.

"You could see form our last game with Gamba Osaka that when Serge came on we played even better and we scored the two goals," he said.

"He quickly adapted and knew what he had to do.

"We still stayed compact in defence and Serge managed to score a good team goal.

"That showed that we are comfortable of doing the job by playing with one or two up front."

Lawyers for Coolen claim the Reds misled their client, who was dumped as Adelaide's coach last December - 18 months into a four-year contract worth $1.1 million.

Coolen's lawyers appeared in the South Australian District Court, arguing Adelaide United breached his contract.

But the club said Coolen wasn't sacked but merely redeployed to a junior development role, which he opted not to perform.

Coolen's lawyer, Andrew Short, said the redeployment was untenable and Coolen was seeking damages over his contract.

Coolen remained in Australia on a visa sponsored by Adelaide United and his living situation was endangered by losing his job, Mr Short told the court.

"It places at risk his ability to stay in the country," he said.

After being removed as coach, Coolen lodged a claim against United under Football Federation Australia's grievance resolution regulations.

But FFA's appeal committee ruled the case can't go through the grievance process.

The ruling prompted Coolen to go to the district court's civil jurisdiction, seeking damages.

Lawyers for Coolen and United agreed to mediation meetings, with the court setting a settlement conference for July.

The former Newcastle Jets forward has penned a two-year contract with the Sky Blues, after spending the past three seasons with the Jets.

Sydney's new head coach Ian Crook swooped on the Iraqi international after he was axed by the Jets last week.

"I think I will bring excitement," said Abbas, who was a member of Iraq's 2007 Asian Cup-winning team.

"Don't get me wrong - they have quality players here and I'm very excited to work with them and hopefully I can add more to them."

"Sydney FC is a big club in Australia and, if you want to play for a big club, you have to be positive and work hard all the time."

Abbas, 25, is the first player to join the Sky Blues since Crook was handed the reins earlier this month and the new coach has no doubt he will be a crowd pleaser.

"Once I knew I'd got the job, he was someone that I knew would be a great fit for the way I want to play," Crook said.

"He's somebody I believe will get bums off their seats and standing up and applauding the things he does ... so hopefully he'll be a big hit."

The signing of Abbas is the first blow in what promises to be an ongoing tussle to snare players with the new Sydney side coached by Tony Popovic.

"It's great to have rivalry now," Crook said.

"We're happy we've got him. If western Sydney were interested and we've got him instead of them - brilliant!"

"But I'm sure there'll be some they get that we'll miss out on."

"This will be an ongoing thing, but I'm not going to fight Popa over it - he's bigger than me."

Various names have been thrown up as possible marquee men for the Sky Blues but Crook admits snaring either of the latest suggestions - England international Michael Owen or Brazil's Ronaldinho - might be a stretch.

"Two individuals like that would excite any team but we have to be realistic," Crook said.

"We've got restraints to work with and a budget. If they were prepared to fit into our budget, which is doubtful, then that would be great."

After last week's appointment of Popovic as coach and Lyall Gorman as executive chairman, the club is also expected to announce its first player signings this week.

Milicic, part of Heart's set-up from day one, leaves the Melbourne club after after two years as assistant to the now-departed John van't Schip.

After missing out on the head coaching job to John Aloisi earlier this month, speculation mounted that 38-year-old Milicic would return to Sydney to link up with his good friend Popovic.

"Ante had a substantial role in the establishment of our playing roster and implementation of the playing style and philosophy which is now our trademark," Heart CEO Scott Munn said.

"While obviously disappointed to see Ante leave, we understand the significance of the opportunity which presented itself in helping establish a team in his home town.

"We thank him for his contribution to Melbourne Heart FC and wish him well for the future."

It's believed that Milicic has signed a four-year deal with the western Sydney team after knocking back an offer to join Brisbane Roar's coaching set-up.

The Iraq international, who became an Australian citizen last year, agreed terms over the weekend and trained with the Sky Blues on Monday.

"I believe Ali is a fantastic addition to the squad and will have a big impact on the team," Crook said.

“He has great endurance and is very quick. He is also naturally left footed which is something we’ve been missing on the left wing recently.

“I think we are very lucky to have won his signature and he will prove to be a very exciting signing for the Sydney FC fans.”

Abbas was a member of the Iraq national team that won the 2007 Asian Cup and has spent the last three seasons playing for Jets.

“I'm really happy to be joining Sydney FC," he said. "It is exciting for me to be moving to one of the biggest clubs in Australia, which already has a history of success in the A-League.

“Sydney FC has a strong squad and a great coaching staff, and I look forward to working with both.

“Now I'm ready to focus on training for next season, and help the team challenge for another title."

Abbas fled war-torn Iraq after playing an under 23’s international against the Olyroos in Gosford four years ago.

He was granted asylum to stay in Australia and rebuilt his football career with Marconi Stallions in the New South Wales Premier League.

Ioannis Fetfaztidis, a Petar Franjic own-goal and David Fuster's double proved decisive in the glamour friendly as a disjointed Victory - minus Harry Kewell and Adrian Leijer - came up well short.

Its sole consolation was provided by stand-in captain Archie Thompson's penalty.

A full-strength Olympiacos - Greece's league and cup doule winner - was superior in all departments against a hopelessly outgunned host.

The first strike came after just nine minutes when Spanish attacker Fuster rounded Victory shot-stopper Lawrence Thomas before slotting home.

With regular right-back Matthew Foschini in the middle of defence alongside Franjic and Adama Traore starting his first competitive game after his move from Gold Coast United, it was a patchwork Victory backline.

In front of a disappointing 16,879 crowd, Belgian Kevin Mirallas sent over a pin-point cross from the byline for an unmarked Fetfaztidis to head past Thomas for the second.

Three minutes later it was 3-0, when Algerian forward Rafik Djebbour evaded two challenges and the unfortunate Franjic diverted the cross past Thomas.

Jose Chovelas then felled Archie Thompson in the box and the striker picked himself up to steer the penalty past Balazs Megyeri.

Olympiacos completed the rout after a clearance sold Sam Gallagher short and Fuster headed home.

"It's a fantastic coup to bring a quality player like Michael across to Western Australia," Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson said.

"I am delighted, Michael is a leader and a winner."

Asked to describe Thwaite’s qualities, Ferguson highlighted the 29-year-old's ability to play the ball out of defence.

"He’s very comfortable in possession, he can switch the play, breaks the lines and can also can drive through the middle.

"Michael has been one of the league’s better players for the last three seasons."

A six- time Socceroos international, Thwaite has represented Australia at three different levels and also enjoyed a five year stint in Europe playing for National Bururesti (Romania), Wisla Krakow (Poland) and SK Brann (Norway).

Thwaite returned to Australia in the 2008-2009 A-League season and was on loan at Melbourne Victory before spending the last three seasons with now defunct Gold Coast United.

"I’m relieved to finally know where I am heading," Thwaite said.

"Within the Perth Glory squad I have previously played with eight or so of the boys and that was a big factor in my decision.

"I also spent two years together with the captain Jacob Burns in Poland so it’s nice to have these combinations.

"It’s great to be heading to Perth and I’d especially like to thank the coach Ian Ferguson and my manager Peter Kelly."

Jamieson is the fifth young player to sign for Glory's first team during the off-season alongside Brandon O'Neill (18), Chris Harold (19), Ndumba Makeche (20) and Adrian Zahra (21).

"I'm very excited to be heading to Perth," Jamieson said.

"Now I’m looking forward to playing with a group of talented players and developing my game with an astute coaching staff."

The left full-back has already played two games for Australia and in 2009 was awarded the A-League Youth player of the year.

Jamieson has played 95 A-League games for Adelaide United and Sydney FC and also spent three years at Bolton Wanderers from 2006-08.

"Scott is a player I have admired over the years," Perth coach Ian Ferguson said.

"He’s a great addition to our squad and will make us stronger.

"We were very keen to add youth to our squad and it's great we've now added five players under 23 who have A-League experience.

"The signature of Jamieson is a coup for Perth Glory."

After a 20-year professional career that earned him 58 appearances for Australia, Popovic has experienced all the highs and lows the game can offer.

But never in his wildest dreams did he imagine that his first job as a head coach would be for a club with no players, no name, no colours and no home ground.

Popovic was unveiled as the inaugural coach of the A-League's newest club, which will represent the west of Sydney.

"I certainly did not envisage this," Popovic quipped. "But this is the exciting part of it, the challenge.

"We have a blank piece of paper and piece by piece we need to fill that paper up in all areas of the club.

"I know I'll be working closely with (new executive chairman) Lyall Gorman on achieving that goal.

"But we know we'll get there, we'll have our bumps along the way but we have a clear goal and vision for the club. We're confident we'll achieve that."

Popovic quit a lucrative post with English Championship club Crystal Palace to take up the opportunity to go back to his roots and take the reins of the west Sydney club.

He certainly would not have made the decision to leave London if he had any doubts on the future of the new venture.

"This team from west Sydney will be there in the long term," Popovic said.

"We've gone through every process and every diligence required about what can be done for this club.

"I have actually no doubt that it will be a success.

"That's why I have taken up the challenge, that's how simple it is."

Popovic, whose deal is four years, said he would start working immediately on acquiring players with pre-season training to commence on Monday 25 June ahead of the A-League kick-off in October.

"Recruitment is something we will have to look into closely," Popovic explained.

"So anyone who is off contract is at the top of my wish list.

"We are short of time but we won't make rush decisions and we're confident of getting a good and competitive team that reflects the culture and passion of the fans from Sydney's west.

"I grew up in the area and I know what people expect because they work hard for their dollar.

"We want the whole region to feel proud to be associated with the club.

"Which is why we have to choose the right players.

"They will have to bring a skill set that we're after but they also will have to become part of the club and bring in the core values we believe in."

Popovic also revealed that he never had any meaningful talks with Sydney FC as has been widely reported.

"I never had any detailed discussions with Sydney FC," he said.

"It's a former club where I had some great times and I have respect for the people there but there was nothing formal ever discussed.

"For me it was all about leaving Palace on good terms.

"They really backed me on this decision. Once they gave the all clear, it was a pretty easy decision."

The full-time role will encompass leadership of the Board and Management across all facets of the operation from football to finance.

Football Federation Australia congratulated Gorman on his appointment. "The establishment of the A-League club in western Sydney at this time is the most important project in the context of building a sustainable A-League," FFA CEO Ben Buckley said.

"I believe the club will have an impact on the A-League well beyond the region of western Sydney.

"For that reason there is no one better qualified in Australian sport than Lyall Gorman for the job of kick starting the new club.

"His experience with the Mariners and his time as Head of the Hyundai A-League provide Lyall with a unique insight into the challenges ahead and as a Bankstown boy he has a huge passion for the region."

Gorman will commence his new role on Monday 21 May.

"I see the role of Executive Chairman as being about much more than building a club on behalf of members and fans," Gorman said

"It's about being entrusted by the football community with a mandate to deliver on the enormous potential of western Sydney.

"Over the past month I have participated in seven fan forums across the region attended by passionate and committed football people. I have come away energised and emboldened by the endless possibilities in football's heartland.

"At the outset, the promise was made to put community engagement at the core of the club. That will be the strength of this new club and how it can set new benchmarks in football."

The announcement comes after the 38-year-old quit his post and was formally released as assistant coach of Crystal Palace in England.

After assistant coaching roles with Sydney FC and Crystal Palace, Popovic is taking on his first full-time head coaching job.

"This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to coach the new club in western Sydney and I'm really honoured and excited about the mission ahead of us," Popovic said.

"I grew up in west Sydney and learned my football there, but it's the challenge of a start up club in football's heartland that has brought me home.

"Certainly it's a great challenge, but one that I can handle and hopefully I'll bring a lot of leadership.

"Knowing the area, growing up in the area, I know what the people of the region expect.

"They're hard-working people - they work hard for their dollar. They want to see a reflection of that in their team.

"(Hopefully) we can bring that along with a good brand of football that the A-League will be proud of, and that the people of western Sydney will be proud of.

"I know the region has a great passion for the game, fantastic junior ranks and thousands of life-long fans. These are ingredients that can help make our club a success."

Popovic confirmed that he had informal talks with Sydney FC before the club appointed Ian Crook earlier this week.

But he is now focused on getting a competitive team together for the 2012-2013 A-League campaign and a support staff, with Melbourne Heart assistant Ante Milicic among the candidates.

The club's executive chairman Lyall Gorman, said ex-Socceroos defender Popovic was the natural choice for the role.

"Everyone in the game knows and respects Tony's leadership qualities as a player in the Socceroos and in 400 games of club football," Gorman said.

"There's no doubt Tony will bring those qualities to the new club. He has the coaching skills and the character to be successful in the A-League and his heritage in western Sydney makes him a fine ambassador for the region.

"I'm delighted to have a man of the stature of Tony Popovic as one of the pioneers of the new club in western Sydney."

Gorman's appointment to the full-time role sees him give up the role as Head of A-League.

The defenders had waited months to learn if they had a future at the club as Sydney's search for a coach went on, but the club announced on Thursday they would be released as the Sky Blues head in "a new direction".

Jamieson has already secured his future, signing with Perth Glory, while Cole and Beauchamp are now free agents and could be considered by the new western Sydney franchise.

"We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Shannon, Scott and Michael for their service to Sydney FC," Sydney FC football director Gary Cole said.

"After a number of discussions in recent days we feel Sydney FC is moving in a new direction and an injection of fresh faces with different skills is what is required to take the club forward.

"On behalf of everyone at Sydney FC, I'd like to wish Shannon, Michael and Scott every success in the future."

With Bruno Cazarine, Karol Kisel, Jamie Coyne and Juho Makela also released from last season's senior squad, Sydney's playing group is set for a major overhaul under Crook.

The West Australian reported Thwaite, who played in Romania, Poland and Norway before joining Melbourne Victory on loan in 2008, has verbally agreed to a two-year deal worth $500,000.

It is believed Glory beat A-League rivals Melbourne Victory and Melbourne Heart to the 29-year-old’s services.

Thwaite is expected to make a seamless transition into the Glory lineup, having played alongside captain Jacob Burns at Wisla Krakow and Shane Smeltz, Bas van den Brink and Steve Pantelidis at Gold Coast United.

Joining Thwaite will be fellow defender Scott Jamieson, who confirmed on his Twitter page that he will be leaving Sydney FC, where he is off contract.

"I am heading to the West Of Australia (sic)," Jamieson wrote, before confirming to a number of followers that he is joining Glory.

Jamieson, who enjoyed a stint with Bolton Wanderers as a teenager, played for Adelaide United where he was crowned the A-League’s young player of the year in 2008-2009, before joining Sydney FC.

The newly named All Whites keeper joins fellow New Zealand international, Glen Moss, signed from Gold Coast United, to give Phoenix one of the strongest goalkeeping line-ups of the competition.

"I feel I've still got plenty to offer and am looking forward to next season already," Paston said.

"Glen and myself have been vying for the goalkeeping spot at the club before, as well as with the All Whites, and it will be good to have such strong opposition for the position."

The pair will train together when they head into the All Whites camp on Saturday to prepare for matches against Honduras and El Salvador ahead of the OFC FIFA World Cup qualifying tournament in the Solomon Islands.

The Solomons tournament doubles as the second stage of a four-stage Oceania qualifying process for the World Cup in Brazil in 2014.

"The timing of these games is good for me because I think if you have too long off between seasons the body can relax a bit too much," Paston said.

However, Paston faces a short stint on the sidelines when he has a minor operation to remove screws from his leg.

Phoenix head coach Ricki Herbert said he was delighted to retain Paston.

"Mark had a fantastic season and it was important to keep him at the club," Herbert said.

The news came a day after Herbert announced Paston and Moss in the 22-man All Whites side.

It's understood Popovic signed after final talks with Football Federation Australia officials on Wednesday, putting the first major block in place as the team prepares to enter the competition in 2012-2013.

The appointment, believed to be on a four-year deal, will be announced at a media conference at 1200 (AEST) on Thursday.

The name, colours and home ground of the new team are also expected to be announced.

The announcement comes after Popovic quit his post and was formally released as assistant coach of Crystal Palace in England and he knocked back an offer from Sydney FC this week.

Sydney installed Ian Crook as its coach on Monday.

After assistant coaching roles with Sydney and Crystal Palace, Popovic is set for his first head coaching job.

Popovic will be charged with the considerable task of building the club's squad from scratch and will turn his immediate focus to player recruitment.

Adelaide's former A-League player of the year Marcos Flores, Carlos Hernandez, Issey Nakajima-Farran, Tarek Elrich, Kasey Wehrman, Ali Abbas, Michael Thwaite, Adam Griffiths and Ante Covic are among players to have been linked with the club.

Popovic will also be able to draw on his coaching and playing experiences playing in England, Asia and the Middle East in recruiting a squad.

Sydney-born Popovic started his playing career with Sydney United before spells with Japan's Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Crystal Palace, Qatar's Al Arabi and Sydney.

He was capped 59 times for Australia in 12 years and was part of the Socceroos squad at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

The new franchise will likely wait to announce a team name with a series of public forums settling on Athletic, Wanderers, Strikers, Wolves and Rangers as the leading contenders with the team colours tipped to be red, black and white.

The out-of-contract Costa Rica international revealed, that he was dumped via an email by Victory managing director Richard Wilson, in a Facebook note to Victory fans on Wednesday afternoon.

"I want to thank all the Melbourne Victory fans for all your continuing support," Hernandez wrote from Costa Rica.

"I know the club has not informed you that I won't be continuing with them.

"I received an email from Richard Wilson, so I want to thank you with all my heart.

"I love you. You'll be in my heart forever. Thanks you Australia and especially Melbourne for opening your doors to me.

"Farewell from your great friend, Carlos Hernandez."

Hernandez, who won the A-League Premiership/Championship double in 2008-2009 and was voted the best player in the A-League in 2009-2010, leaves Melbourne after 36 goals in 121 appearances in five years.

Last Wednesday afternoon Victory confirmed Hernandez would not be returning for another A-League campaign.

"The club has spent considerable time negotiating with Carlos, but ultimately it was unable to agree to terms," a club statement read.

Melbourne Victory coach Ange Postecoglou explained Hernandez's departure.

"The club engaged in discussions with Carlos, but couldn’t reach agreement and will now move in a different direction," Postecoglou said.

"This provides some clarity for us to seek out and secure key players with our remaining visa spots."

Earlier in the day, Postecoglou said he wanted to free up salary cap space to start the rebuilding at the club, with the reported $350,000 a season 30-year-old Hernandez is seeking viewed as too much for a player with a questionable work rate and fitness.

"It looks like it's becoming increasingly difficult to fit him in," Postecoglou said. "From my point of view, I need to change things here.

"I want to play a different style of football and when you look at Carlos, he's out of contract.

"With the salary cap, I just think we need a little bit more to manoeuvre with. This is my opportunity to change things around. It's going to be very hard to fit Carlos in there."

Renowned for his long-range goals, Hernandez had been linked with a possible move to Adelaide United, though his salary demands would suggest a move overseas is more likely.

But the news is brighter for Harry Kewell, who is understood to be close to agreeing to a new deal to stay at Victory.

After re-organising the club's football department, Postecoglou is keen to nail down his foreign signings first, earmarking a central defender and defensive midfielder as priorities to strengthen the squad.

The size of Kewell's pay packet is also set to determine the level of Victory's spending on new players.

"We found in Brisbane if you get the right foreigners in the mix, you can certainly make a difference," Postecoglou said.

"Our first couple of signings will be foreigners.

"That's where I want to spend the cash first. Then we'll see what we have for Australian players."

Victory has released out-of-contract veterans Ante Covic and Grant Brebner.

But Postecoglou said their release was not necessarily a comment on the players, more about creating the freedom to bring in the right new talent.

"When you're restricted by salary caps, if you want to make changes, you have to make decisions and release people," Postecoglou said.

"It's my opportunity to stamp my authority on the club, and my style on the club. And that releases some spots where I can bring some people in."

Ian Crook was on Monday appointed as the Sky Blues' new head coach and his promotion from the youth team might also signal the elevation of some youngsters into the senior team.

With the coaching role filled, the club will shift its focus on recruiting new players, with Crook saying the process will begin this week.

McFlynn said the veterans in the squad aren't concerned.

"We're not threatened, not at all. That's progression," McFlynn said.

"We've got a hell of a lot of good players already at this club and we've got maybe five or six of them who will make that step up from the youth side.

"Maybe three or four fresh faces will come into the first team too, and that's exciting. That's the future of the club."

Joel Chianese, who was last season promoted from the youth team in April to make his debut in the senior side, said Crook's appointment had given other young players hope they might also get an opportunity.

"Crook's appointment is really exciting for the younger players," Chianese said. "They're probably thinking maybe they will get more of an opportunity.

"But he's got to get results because it's his job on the line as well."

The awards will be presented at a function in Brisbane on Wednesday 13 June in conjunction with the Football Media Association (FMA).

The PFA awards to be presented are:

:: PFA Footballer of the Year, Previously won by Tim Cahill (2009), Mark Schwarzer (2010) and Matt McKay (2011);

Nominees
Besart Berisha, Brisbane Roar (Australia)
Thomas Broich, Brisbane Roar (Australia)
Alex Brosque, Shimizu S-Pulse (Japan)
Adam Federici, Reading FC (England)
Brett Holman, AZ Alkmaar (Netherlands)
Josh Kennedy, Nagoya Grampus (Japan)
Luke Wilkshire, Dinamo Moscow (Russia)
Patrick Zwaanswijk, Central Coast Mariners (Australia)

:: PFA Harry Kewell Medal for Australia's best male player under the age of 23, previously won by Nikita Rukavytsya (2009), Mitch Langerak (2010) and Robbie Kruse (2011);

Nominees
Aziz Behich, Melbourne Heart (Australia)
James Brown, Gold Coast United (Australia)
Luke Devere, Gyeongnam (Korea)
Mate Dugandzic, Melbourne Heart (Australia)
Ryan McGowan, Heart of Midlothian (Scotland)
Mitch Nichols, Brisbane Roar (Australia)
Matt Ryan, Central Coast Mariners (Australia)
Rhys Williams, Middlesbrough FC (England)

The men's nominees are being voted on by the more than 300 professional footballers playing in the A-League and in other leagues around the world.

:: PFA Women's Footballer of the Year, won by Servet Uzunlar in 2010 and Elise Kellond-Knight in 2011.

Nominees
Caitlin Foord, Sydney FC (Australia)
Elise Kellond-Knight, Brisbane Roar (Australia)/Fortuna Hjorring (Denmark)
Sally Shipard, Canberra United (Australia)/ Bayer Leverkusen (Germany)
Lydia Williams, Canberra United (Australia)/ Pitea IF Dam (Sweden)

The PFA Women’s Footballer of the Year Award will be voted for by the Matildas.

"Anywhere in the world, the most coveted individual honour a player can receive is the one voted on by his or her peers," PFA President and Melbourne Heart defender Simon Colosimo said.

"With more and more players having the opportunity to earn their living from football, the PFA Footballer of the Year Awards are more competitive than ever." The PFA’s highest honour, the PFA Alex Tobin Medal, will also be presented to a current or former professional who has demonstrated leadership, achievement as a player, service and dedication to the game and commitment to the wellbeing of fellow professionals.

The four previous recipients of the award are:– the late Johnny Warren, Joe Marston, Craig Johnston and Mark Viduka.

The FMA will also be presenting the winners of its International Footballer of the Year (men and women) at the awards, the evening after Australia takes on Japan in a FIFA 2014 World Cup qualifier.

Shannon Cole, Michael Beauchamp and Scott Jamieson are all off contract with the club, which has been waiting for the appointment of a new coach to decide the players' fate.

With Crook - who was on Monday promoted from youth team coach to the head coaching role - now in charge, decisions will be made.

Crook said he'd sit down with Sky Blues football director Gary Cole, assistant coach Steve Corica and goalkeeping coach Zeljko Kalac to sort out various team issues.

"Certainly over the next 72 hours we'll start nutting some real serious things down," Crook said at his first training session at the helm on Wednesday.

"We probably have three things to discuss: players that we've got here and what we'll do for them, players that are out of contract, and players that we're looking to bring in."

Crook, who is a former Norwich City and Tottenham Hotspur player, said it had been "a bit of whirlwind" since his appointment and the phone was running hot with not only well-wishers but player agents.

"Maybe I was a bit sceptical about what the feeling would be out there, but it's been great and for that I'm delighted," he said.

"Most of the phone calls have been well-wishers at the moment, even the agents, but I'm sure their next call will be 'what about this player, what about that player'."

With Brazilian import Bruno Cazarine leaving the club, Crook pinpointed the forward stocks as a priority when recruitment begins.

The Englishman denied new owner, Russian billionaire David Traktovenko, would have an input in the search for new players.

"Up front is a vital area for us and I'll go anywhere whether it's Penrith or Peterborough in England, as long as it's somebody I believe will do a job for this club," Crook said.

"And I can honestly say that I haven't had one comment from anybody board-related that said to me 'what about this player'."

Crystal Palace co-chairman Steve Parish confirmed to local newspaper The South London Press that the ex-Australia defender has decided to leave the club, where he is the assistant coach, to head up the new Sydney team.

"I've had a conversation with him last night and they have offered him a five-year deal to go," Parish said.

"We're trying to sort out the details."

A five-year deal would be the longest offered to a coach in the A-League.

Football Federation Australia will hold a press conference at noon on Thursday confirming Popovic's appointment at western Sydney with former Melbourne Heart assistant Ante Milicic also likely to be confirmed as deputy coach at the new club.

The team's name, colours and home ground are also expected to be announced.

Popovic, who was seen talking to A-League boss Lyall Gorman at The Star on Wednesday, was reportedly also courted by Sydney FC, which yesterday promoted its youth league coach Ian Crook to the head coaching role.

The western Sydney franchise is also set to announce a team name with a series of public forums settling on Athletic, Wanderers, Strikers, Wolves and Rangers as the leading contenders with the team colours tipped to be red, black and white.

Despite that, The World Game can reveal the nickname "Pride" is a preferred option for FFA, which 'Wanderers' also mentioned. Fans also stated United as a favourite at some of the forums, but that also doesn't appear to have made the short list.

Nichols will train with the Randers squad during what is expected to be a five or six day stay with a view to signing a four-year deal, as the club seeks promotion to the Danish Super League.

Nichols, who is seeking to push his Socceroos claims, sees the looming switch as the opportunity to place himself in a bigger shop window after helping Roar win back-to-back A-League grand finals and emerging as one of the competition’s most compelling talents.

With over a season left on Nichols's existing deal, the club will demand a transfer fee for one of its most creative players and the scorer of 11 goals last season.

Roar coach Rado Vidosic made it plain the club will not seek to stand in Nichols's way should he opt to make the switch.

"Mitch has been excellent for us over a number of seasons now and we would rather he stayed than went but there is an opportunity for him there to play regular first team football in a good league, assuming that Randers gets promoted, which is looking very likely," Vidosic said.

"He will go over there in the next few days have a look at the town, the team and talk with the coach and take it from there.

"He certainly has the quality to play in Europe and I see him as a future Socceroo. He was a main part of Australia’s under-23 set-up and that is traditionally a stepping stone to higher things.

"This chance has probably the right time for him, especially going to a club where he can play week-in week-out. That’s what is most important.

"It's no use for him at the age 23 to go and sit on the bench somewhere.

"Mitch has been very loyal to us and while there would be a transfer fee we are not inclined to stand in his way.

"I am sure he will achieve the same status for Randers as he has with us if he does go ahead and sign for them. If he opts not to join them then we are more than happy for him to stay with us."

Nichols’ Sydney-based representative Buddy Farah said: "It’s a good to place to kick his European career.

"He will be by playing every week. That’s the strategy and Socceroos boss Holger Osieck wants to see those hoping to get selected playing regularly for their clubs.

"Mitch has one cap for his country and is of course hungry for more. There has been a lot of interest in from places like Turkey, Germany and Spain but the Danes have been patient, they came out to watch him in Australia and they liked what they saw.

"It’s now just a matter of him going over there and seeing if everything gels."

Randers won the 2006 Danish Cup and competed in the qualifying phase of two of the last three Europe Leagues.

Bojic, a favourite among Mariners' fans, has signed on to stay at the club until the end of the 2013/14 A-League season.

Anderson, coach Graham Arnold's first recruit of the off-season, has also committed to a two-season deal.

Bojic, a 100-game veteran, said: "It’s satisfying to know that I’ve got my contract sorted and that I am staying at the club that I have been at for so long.

"I’m looking to take my game to another level next season. Extra hard work is going to be put in place, and I’ll be looking at polishing off areas of my game where there needs to be more consistency."

Anderson expressed his delight to be joining last season's top-placed A-League club.

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity,” Anderson said. “I’m very lucky that the Central Coast Mariners and Arnie (coach Arnold) have given me the opportunity to go down south and work under their guidance."

Describing himself as “extremely ambitious”, Anderson also noted he is keen to learn from two of the best central defenders in the league in Patrick Zwaanswijk and Alex Wilkinson.

“Alex is the club captain, and Patrick is one of the best defenders – if not the best defender – in the league,” he said.

“I can learn a lot of Alex and Patrick by following them closely and step into one of their shoes one day.

“I’ve got a lot of work to do to get into the team. But when an opportunity comes down the track I’ll take it,” he concluded.

Once dubbed Bling FC, Sydney FC lost its lustre and Crook thinks it's time for the Sky Blues to reclaim the title as 'glamour club'.

Sydney FC on Monday ended its long search for a head coach with Crook's elevation from youth coach to the senior job on a two-year deal.

This now allows the focus to shift to the much-needed recruitment of up to seven players with chairman Scott Barlow saying there was enough money at the club, now owned by his father-in-law, Russian billionaire David Traktovenko.

With three spots available for overseas players, Crook feels the addition of some star quality to attract fans is vital, especially with imminent cross-town rival West Sydney also vying for supporters.

He says his priority would be to bolster the forward pack particularly with the loss of Brazilian striker Bruno Cazarine.

"This club has been blessed in times with some real crowd pleasers - Dwight (Yorke) was a crowd pleaser, even David Carney and then we had Juninho." Crook said.

"So I think it's important that who we bring in needs to fit into a culture that we want to develop, but they need to have a little bit of flair where it will actually get people in here.

"We definitely need to have something that's going to bring back a bit of excitement."

When asked if he wanted to bring the 'bling' back to the club he said:

"Yeah I have no problem with that and if I live to regret that then not an issue at all.

"This club had this cocky kind of mentality from day one where everybody else wanted to knock it off and Sydney, just by having that name, should have that character."

Crook's promotion comes after Sydney pursued and missed out on top coaching targets Graham Arnold and Tony Popovic.

But Crook, who admitted he only considered going for the job when it appeared Arnold was out of the running, said he had no problem being further down the list of candidates.

"You start hearing little things that it's (Arnold's signing) going to happen, it's not going to happen.

"I just sat there thinking to myself 'I wonder if I could do this?'

"Then you just have to have the guts to put your hand up and thankfully for me they've decided to go that way.

"I know Arnie was first choice, and that's alright, I'll give him that one."

After two disappointing seasons the heat will be on Crook to restore the two-time championship winning club to the top of the league with Barlow saying the benchmark was to secure an Asian Champions League spot, which requires a top-three finish.

Crook confirmed Steve Corica will remain assistant coach with Zeljko Kalac staying on as goalkeeping coach.

Crystal Palace assistant Popovic, who knocked back the Sydney FC job last week, prefers the challenge of returning to his roots and building a team in the west.

It is believed Popovic has lined up Milicic, his brother-in-law and teammate at Sydney United during his playing days, as his right hand man.

Milicic is understood to be disappointed to have been pipped by John Aloisi for the head coaching role at Heart after the departure of John van’t Schip and has been seeking opportunities elsewhere.

It is believed the pair have been in discussions since Popovic arrived back in Sydney a week ago and Milicic is willing to bring his family back to Sydney.

Popovic believes Milicic would be the perfect understudy as he embarks on his first head coaching role after 14 months at Selhurst Park and a stint under Vitezslav Lavicka at Sydney FC.

Football Federation Australia (FFA) is expected to confirm the double appointment imminently as it prepares the expansion side for entry into the 2012-2013 A-League season.

Milicic was unwilling to divulge his intentions when contacted by The World Game last week, saying only: “Right now I have just gone through the process at Melbourne Heart and I am just going into the office each day. Until there is something different, here I am.

“I am contracted to Melbourne Heart and that’s where my focus lies.”

Brockie, 24, signed a three-year contract with Phoenix on the back of a successful season with Newcastle Jets during which he scored nine goals, some of them contenders for goal of the season, the club said.

Brockie will wear the No 11 shirt worn by departed crowd favourite Daniel for the past five seasons.

“I didn’t score too many tap-ins, did I?” Brockie quipped.

“They looked pretty good on the highlight reels, that’s for sure.”

The move back to New Zealand after spells with Queensland Fury and Newcastle is something Brockie, who made his A-League debut for now-defunct New Zealand Knights, has been looking forward to.

“I had offers from elsewhere but once Phoenix showed interest there was only one place I wanted to be,” he said.

“It is going to be exciting playing for a professional club in my own country in front of my friends and family.

“I know my dad is delighted that he will only have a 25-minute flight across Cook Strait to see me play instead of the journey to Newcastle.

“I feel now is just the right time to come back to New Zealand and I am well aware of how settled the Phoenix squad is.

“Talking to Ben (Sigmund) and Tim (Brown) convinced me how tightly knit the players at the club are and Phoenix don’t chop and change their playing staff like some clubs.

“That has helped them reach three successive finals series and I hope I can help them go one better in the coming season.

“Scoring goals is a confidence thing and getting nine this season put me on a high.

“I’ve always known I can score goals and now I’m on a run hopefully I can continue the same form in Wellington.”

Crook, the club's youth coach, was unveiled by on Monday as the replacement for Vitezslav Lavicka after signing a two-year deal.

"I'm thrilled and honoured to be named as head coach of Sydney FC," he said.

"This club is very special to me after being part of its birth and early success and since returning to Australia I have enjoyed working with the younger players.

"Over the last few months the competitive urge has been re-ignited inside me and, after spending the last two seasons nurturing and developing young players, the time is right for me to step back into a head coach role."

The promotion from within comes after Sydney pursued and missed out on preferred coaching targets Graham Arnold, who stayed on at Central Coast Mariners, and Tony Popovic.

Former Sky Blues player and assistant Popovic had been mulling over Sydney's offer but could now be poised to take the reins at the new west Sydney club after meeting with both clubs last week.

I'm flattered to be even included in a list of people and I don't have an ego that says I need to be number one choice," Crook said.

"I obviously realise the club had gone a fair way down the line with with somebody else and that's fine.

"The only way I can prove to them I'm the right the right person is by what goes on out there on the field and producing a side that people enjoy watching."

Crook, 49, has 13 years of coaching experience in Australia, Japan and Britain as well as experience as a head coach in the National Soccer League with Newcastle United. He was the Sky Blues' assistant coach under Pierre Littbarski when Sydney claimed the inaugural A-League title in 2004-05.

Crook left Sydney six months after German Littbarksi and linked again with him at Japanese club Avispa Fukuoka, before moving on for spells as technical director at Newcastle Jets and first team coach with Norwich in England.

Since returning to Australia in 2010, Crook has worked in youth development roles with Sydney Olympic, the NSW Institute of Sport and the Sky Blues.

Sydney's youth team finished sixth under his guidance last season but Crook impressed the club in aiding the development of the likes of Joel Chianese and Mitch Mallia, who broke into the senior squad.

He is Sydney's sixth coach heading into the eighth season of the A-League, following Littbarski, Terry Butcher, Branko Culina, John Kosmina and Lavicka, who has returned Europe after three seasons in charge.

"Sydney FC is pleased to announce Ian Crook as the Sydney FC head coach for the next two seasons," chairman Scott Barlow said.

"His passion for Sydney FC runs deep, he has an impressive coaching and football knowledge and he is familiar with the club and what we are trying to achieve."

The Sky Blues had sought Popovic after their initial coaching target, Central Coast's Arnold, made a late decision to remain with the Mariners.

While Tony Popovic remains Sydney's top choice in the hunt for a new mentor after being snubbed by Central Coast Mariners's Graham Arnold, the club's board is leaving nothing to chance with both Yorkre and Italian great Gianfranco Zola identified as probable alternatives should Popovic instead choose to coach western Sydney next season.

The former Socceroos defender and current Crystal Palace assistant coach is due on Monday to inform Sydney's director of football Gary Cole if he will be returning to the where he learned his coaching craft under Vitezslav Lavicka.

If Popovic rejects Sydney's advances and falls into the arms of western Sydney instead, then Sydney's back-up option is to lure either ex-Manchester United maestro Yorke, who led the Sky Blues to the inaugural A-League title nearly seven years ago, or former Chelsea hero Zola, whose most recent coaching gig was at West Ham.

"I have not spoken to Sydney but If they were to approach me I would certainly look at it," Yorke, who is on Manchester United's coaching staff and is in the midst of taking his FIFA badges, told The World Game on Sunday night.

"I do have a lot going in England right now, where I also have a contract with Sky TV in London and perhaps I am not as hungry as I was for the position.

"But, like I said, if they came to me I'd certainly see what they have to say and would take it from there. I get a lot of pleasure from coaching and I am looking to get more into it as time progresses."

Zola, who is in the frame for juicier options in Europe and the Middle East, nonetheless would be expected to enter into initial talks with Sydney should the club make an official approach.

The Italian’s representative in Australia, Buddy Farah, was reluctant to divulge too much, saying only: "At stage I really can't comment."

]]> A-League Australia http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/a-league/news/1105477/Yorke-open-to-Sky-Blues-return http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/a-league/news/1105477/Yorke-open-to-Sky-Blues-return Sun, 13 May 2012 17:40:33 +1000 ]]> Striker Danny Allsopp has pleaded for nothing more than a "fair crack" from new Melbourne Victory coach Ange Postecoglou, believing he has plenty to offer if given a chance.

No one at Victory is looking forward more to the clean slate Postecoglou's arrival brings at the A-League club than Allsopp.

He was out of favour for most of last season amid the club's churning of coaches.

Both Mehmet Durakovic and Jim Magilton continually overlooked or dropped Allsopp despite the troubles under their stewardship.

His best performance last season came in caretaker Kevin Muscat's only match in charge - a starring role wide on the right in a rare victory over Newcastle Jets.

With one year remaining on his current deal at Victory, 33-year-old Allsopp admits Postecoglou has given him no guarantees.

But having suffered since dual championship-winning coach Ernie Merrick's sacking, he is desperate to impress the new boss against Greek champion Olympiacos at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night, and with his training ground work ethic.

"All I want is a fair crack. With Ange coming in, I'll give everything I can to have a good year this year, as I always do, and take it from there," Allsopp said.

"After Ernie left, some things became clear to me - I think I'd scored pretty well when I came back from America and the first chance it could happen, I was left out of the team.

"When you get left completely out of the squad for a match, it doesn't really look good for you.

"It was one frustration after another. I thought I did pretty well for Mehmet in the Asian Champions League and then it seemed like every chance they could leave me out, it happened.

"It's hard to play your best like that. Hopefully this season it's different."

Allsopp has been an integral part of Victory's success.

He was part of both championship-winning squads and remains among the A-League's top five all-time scorers, despite spending a season playing in the Middle East and the United States.

Pacy Halloran burst onto the scene this season with some sparkling performances for Brisbane’s former derby rival.

The much sought-after former Gold Coast United winger chose to sign for the back-to-back A-League champion despite interest from several other clubs.

However, the youngster said local ties and Brisbane’s developing football culture meant he would remain in Queensland.

“I have pretty strong ties with Brisbane, where I lived for the majority of my childhood before I moved to the Gold Coast,” Halloran said.

“From a football standpoint Brisbane’s record stands for itself, they’ve been champions for the past two seasons and play the best football in the competition.

“From my understanding the culture at the club is really professional and has a European feel about how it’s run.

“The way Brisbane play is the way I like to play, they play a real possession style and always have the ball.

“Other teams play a lot more on the counter-attack and it’s a lot more difficult to launch attacks on goal from so much deeper.

“I like to go forward and I like to see a lot of the ball in forward positions.”

While the chance to play an attacking brand of football next season was a big attraction for the 19-year-old, he also has one eye on the future.

Under the tutelage of head coach Rado Vidosic, assistant coach Ken Stead and experienced players Halloran is also looking to take his game to the next level

“An opportunity to be playing with players like Thomas Broich and Besart Berisha, who are proven European performers, is a fantastic opportunity,” he said.

“Playing alongside players like that can only help develop my game.”

For his part, Vidosic said the recruitment of a young player of the calibre of Halloran was an important part of the ongoing development of Brisbane’s attacking, free-flowing style of play.

“Ben is very skilful, young and going to fit into our game plan perfectly,” Vidosic said.

“We want to refresh the team a little bit and get some different dimensions to our play.

“He fits perfectly in our plans and we believe with our way of training he’s going to develop even more and be an even more exciting player.

“The advice he’s got for his personal development it’s best to come to Brisbane because of the game we play.

“With us he’s going to continue his education, and reach his full potential much quicker.”

Halloran will join his teammates for the first time when they return to the training track on 9 July after the club's off-season break.

Brillante joined the Jets having made 14 appearances for Gold Coast United during the past two A-League seasons.

The 19-year-old shone at national youth league level for Gold Coast and won the club's youth star of the future award in 2009-2010.

He made his senior debut against North Queensland Fury on 3 December 2010.

He joins the likes of Scott Neville, Craig Goodwin, Adam Taggart, James Brown and Mark Birighitti as exciting young recruits with international experience.

Jets coach Gary van Egmond said he was thrilled with the newest addition to Newcastle’s playing roster.

“Josh is a member of the under-20 national team and has proven himself at A-League level with Gold Coast last season,” van Egmond said.

“He can play as right-back or central midfielder and has a great attitude.

"He is definitely one for the future.”

Crystal Palace assistant Popovic is a man in demand having met with officials from both the Sky Blues and the new western Sydney A-League club in recent days about head coaching offers.

Popovic and Kalac were long-standing teammates for both Sydney United and the Socceroos and the pair met over lunch on Thursday as Popovic sought the advice of his close friend.

Kalac, who re-signed as Sydney's goalkeeping coach for a further season on Friday, said he "tried my best" to talk up a return to the club for Popovic, a former Sky Blues player and assistant coach.

But he predicted sleepless nights for Popovic over the weekend before an expected decision on Monday.

"He's got a lot on his plate at the moment and he probably just wanted to hear my opinion on certain things," Kalac said of the meeting.

"It'd be a difficult decision and you look at both sides of the fence - it'd obviously be great for him to come here and for us to be working together.

"But on the other side, western Sydney is a new opportunity for him to start from scratch.

"He'd be torn, he'd be stewing over his decision. I know him, he won't sleep.

"He's got a couple of great options and I'm sure he'll make the best decision for himself.

"He's a great coach and whoever gets him will be very lucky."

Like Popovic, Kalac is a western Sydney product but said he always wanted to remain with the Sky Blues.

"Last year was my first year in coaching. I really enjoyed it and see the future in the club," he said.

"The future's looking bright for us, so hopefully stick around and start winning some things."

Kalac took delight in overseeing the improvement of shotstopper Ivan Necevski, who displaced Liam Reddy as first choice keeper and was named Sydney's player of the season.

Kalac is helping to short list potential candidates to replace Reddy following his sacking for being drunk on a team flight in March, but no signings will be made before Sydney has appointed a new coach.

He also hoped to see the new western Sydney team prosper and urged Football Federation Australia to embrace the game's multi-cultural roots in the region in its establishment of the club.

"I hope they go back to old school a little bit," Kalac said.

Barbiero, 28, has played 97 competitive games for the Reds after he accepted a two-week deal as a replacement player in 2007.

Barbiero played only three A-League matches in 2007-2008 but he did enough to impress coach Aurelio Vidmar who rewarded him with a two-year contract.

Barbiero never looked back and today he forms an integral part of the first-team squad, starting in many games at home and abroad in the Reds' engine room.

”I was a train-on player before I signed a two-week contract in 2007 as a replacement for Nathan Burns who was away on rep duty,” Barbiero recalled.

”I always wanted to play at the highest level in Australia but when I was about 23 and playing for Metro Stars I thought I had missed the boat.

”So when the opportunity to play for Adelaide arose it gave me a bit more hope and drive and I took a gamble and sacrificed my job to go there and train.

”I used to work in an office at my uncle's business. When I quit he was all for it because he had known me as a little boy playing football all my life and he knew how much the game meant to me.

”And here I am now, close to a 100 games for the club. I never imagined this.

”So I suppose you can say the gamble paid off in the end.”

Barbiero is expected to play his 98th match for the club when Adelaide faces old rival Gamba Osaka in its final AFC Champions League group match.

The Reds have already qualified for the lucrative knockout phase but victory on Wednesday night – or even a draw if the other group match between Bunyodkor and Pohang Steelers that starts two hours later ends in a draw – would win them the group and a home knockout match in the round of 16.

”There is no reason we can't win in Japan,” Barbiero said.

”I know that we might not even need to win if the other match is drawn but playing for a draw is too risky so we won't take any chances.

”We talked about it at training this week and we will be going for the win because we are confident of getting the points.

”When they played in Adelaide (on match day two) we beat them 2-0 and they looked like a different side to the one that beat us three times in the ACL final and the Club World Cup in 2008.

”They've got nothing to play for now but they still have quality so we have to be very careful.”

Barbiero is looking forward to notching his 'century' of matches for Adelaide which by his own estimation will come some time in the early part of next season.

”The game on Wednesday and the round of 16 clash should take me to 99 if I'm picked,” he said.

”So it would be nice for me to come back next season needing one game to make it a 100.

”It's always been my ambition do do well and be successful in every competition.”

Barbiero has played in several roles for Adelaide although he admits he prefers an advanced central midfield position where he can have a crack at goal.

His hard work and full commitment to the Reds' cause has earned him the club's title of team player of the year in 2009 and 2010, an honour he cherishes greatly.

”It is a very special award and it is very nice to have that and win it,” he said.

”It just shows how much the team respects you.”

Greece's most successful club – fresh from winning the league and cup double – was locked in a war of wills with Santos, who had demanded the five players were rested ahead of Greece’s preparation camp for Euro 2012, where it faces Russia in its opening match.

The club's president Evangelos Marinakis and coach Ernesto Valverde insist they will field a full strength team against Victory.

“We’ve had too many club teams come to Australia with weakened teams which has left fans short changed,” said the event's promoter John Denison. “You saw that with Juventus not so long ago and if Santos had had his way this would have been the same again.

“Fortunately, the club stood firm and insisted it wanted to build its brand in Australia through this tour and we’ll now to get to see their very best team.”

That means right back Vasilios Torosidis, left back Jose Holebas, central defender Avram Papadopulos, defensive midfielder Yiannis Maniatis and attacker Yiannis Fetfatzidis will all be on show.

Prolific Belgian striker Kevin Miralas will also be part of the squad along with Sweden captain Olof Mellberg, who resisted the entreaties of his country to be a part of the tour.

“It’s a tribute to Olympiacos that they have overruled the wishes of Santos,” Denison said. “He said the players in question can’t and shouldn’t go to Australia and that the national team should be paramount.

“His argument was that the season is over, so why come to Australia and put international players at risk of injury so close the Euros. He wanted them all in camp on May 20 but instead they will be here. They will get back to Greece a day late.

“Olympiacos informed him their brand means a lot, good will means a lot and they weren’t prepared to renege on their agreement with us.

“In the past so many teams that have come to Australia have pretty much treated it as a holiday. That is not the case in this occasion.”

The visitor is expected to field its strongest side for at least the opening half before an anticipated raft of second half substitutions in what is Valverde’s last game in charge.

Olympiacos has been further bolstered by news that Argentine midfielder and club player of the year Ariel Ibagaza is fit after it was initially feared he would miss out.

A crowd in excess of 30,000 is anticipated in Melbourne, whose large Greek community is expected to embrace the clash.

“Olympiacos are unbelievable to watch live and people will get the chance to see the team which won the Greek title,” Denison said.

Olympiacos has won a record 38 league titles, 24 Greek Cups and 4 Greek Super Cups.

The former Socceroos and AC Milan goalkeeper joined at the start of the 2011/12 campaign and has agreed to a one-year contract extension.

Western Sydney product Kalac said remaining with the Sky Blues was his top priority, despite a second Sydney team entering the competition from next season.

"Sydney FC is a great club with great facilities and I have really enjoyed coming to work every day since I started. Staying at Sydney FC was the only option for me as far as I was concerned," Kalac said.

"I'm really grateful for the opportunity I was given when the position became available at the start of this year and I have enjoyed coaching the A-League 'keepers as well as the young goalkeepers coming through."

Kalac will continue to work with Sydney's No.1 goalkeeper Ivan Necevski and will help identify a replacement for backup Liam Reddy, who was sacked by the club.

Sydney FC remains on the hunt for a new head coach after Central Coast's Graham Arnold turned his back on a lucrative offer to join the club.

The Sky Blues are locked in a race with the new western Sydney franchise to sign former Sydney FC player and assistant Tony Popovic as coach, with the former Socceroos defender expected to make a decision early next week.

Arbib and Crismale join the board after Sydney FC's recent change in ownership structure and the resignation of chairman Paul Ramsay and directors Chris Rex and Elliott Rusanow.

Recently appointed Sydney FC chairman Scott Barlow was pleased with the double appointment.

"Both men bring invaluable experience that will complement the skills of the current board members and they both share a genuine and long held passion for football and Sydney FC," Barlow said.

Crismale, who has enjoyed a successful financial business career and is the Vice Chairman of the Australian Turf Club, was a foundation board member of Sydney FC while Mr Arbib has been a passionate Sydney FC supporter since the club's inception in 2005.

"I'm extremely excited about joining the board at Sydney FC," Arbib said.

"I'm passionate about football and believe Sydney FC has a big future in the A-League but also contributing to the local community. I am excited to be able to help them do both.

"I believe professional sports clubs can play a vital role in increasing the participation levels of kids and helping Sydney FC engage with the community and build even stronger links at grassroots level will be a focus of mine."

Crismale said: "I'm honoured to be invited to join the board to help Sydney FC engage with all stakeholders of the game."

"I now look forward to combining my business and sports administration knowledge with my passion for the club to help take Sydney FC forward."

The Sydney FC Board is:

Scott Barlow (Chairman)

Mark Arbib

Michael Crismale

Jeremy Nicholas

Jamie Samaha

Sydney FC will make an announcement in the near future regarding further additions to its board.

Locked in talks with officials from both clubs this week, the Crystal Palace assistant coach will not be returning to London – where he has a year to run on his deal and another year on the table.

Instead, he will either return to his western Sydney roots where he was nurtured at Sydney United and grew up in Fairfield, or return to Sydney FC – the club which promoted him to assistant coach under Vitezslav Lavicka but then overlooked his ambitions when handing the Czech a contract extension for the 2011-2012 A-League season.

It's understood Popovic has yet to decide which of the suitors suits him best with the lure of Sydney tempered by the club's high turnover of coaches and a residual unease over being overlooked for the top job prior to his switching to Championship side Palace 14 months ago.

The former Australia defender has told friends that the lure of a return to his roots in the west is strong but he is unsure if the five-month time table allotted prior to the team's A-League entry – and the budget on offer from owner Football Federation Australia – would allow him to put together a squad strong enough to hit the ground running in 2012-2013.

Should Popovic opt for Sydney FC, then the door at western Sydney could swing open for Ante Milicic, whose position at Melbourne Heart has become untenable in the eyes of many observers after John Aloisi was this week appointed ahead of him as successor to John van't Schip.

A source close to Popovic told The World Game: "He's having meetings with both parties and is definitely not going back to Crystal Palace. It's just a matter of which Sydney team he goes for now and it's my understanding he’ll make a final decision on Monday."

Western Sydney plans to make its coaching announcement next week, with Sydney also keen to put a swift end to the speculation after its unsuccessful courtship of Central Coast Mariners' Graham Arnold and now its pursuit of Popovic.

Goods's representatives, Ritchie Hinton and Zeljko Susa of Melbourne-based Pitch Management, declared that such talk was "well wide of the mark".

"The club is going through a restructure of its development set up and Curtis is still very much in their thinking.

The 19-year-old is back in Australia after a 10-day trial with the Magpies.

The Newcastle Chronicle reported that a deal was very unlikely for the former Joeys skipper, who has a year to run on his Heart deal and a $400,000 price tag on his head.

"When the season finishes they will sit down over there and try and nut out a deal. He's back home now and that was always going to be the case," Hinton, who said.<

"There is a lot of good on both sides … the clubs are working together and we're optimistic a deal can be done.

"These things sometimes take time. It's certainly not dead in the water.

"The transfer window doesn't open until July 1.

"It's a credit to the player himself, the A-League, Melbourne Heart and Australia's development programs that he's come through and is knocking on the door of a big league."

The Argentine, who won the 2011 Johnny Warren medal winner during a stunning season for the Reds, is mysteriously out of favour under former Australian youth team's chief Jan Versleijen at Chinese Super League club Henan Jianye.

It's understood Versleijen, whose defensive structure cannot seemingly accommodate Flores, would not stand in the playmaker's way should he wish to leave China a year before his contract expires.

Sold to Henan – which is 11 in the CSL with 10 points from nine games - for $600,000, Flores is keeping a watchful eye on events back in Adelaide although the club would have to release either Australian marquee Dario Vidosic, who has been unsettled but has two years left on his deal, or Dutch striker Sergio Van Dijk, out of favour of late and with a year to run on his contract, to make room for him.

"We've got Serge van Dijk as the international marquee and Dario Vidosic as the Australian marquee and both are contracted for next season so on that premise there is nowhere for Marcos to go in the salary cap as a squad player," Reds coach John Kosmina told The World Game show on Monday.

An A-League wide austerity policy is also working against Flores, whose contract with Henan is worth a reported $800,000 a season, as clubs look to shave costs and seek to fit entire squads well inside their $2.5 million salary caps.

Other options for Flores could be Newcastle Jets, Melbourne Victory, or possibly Perth Glory.

The new western Sydney franchise might also be an option, though it could be politically difficult for the FFA-owned outfit to splash marquee cash while other teams in the competition are forced to tighten the purse strings.

Thompson said Postecoglou has already brought improvement to training sessions since taking control of the club just over a week ago.

Victory play its first competitive match under Postecoglou in a friendly against Greek champion Olympiacos at Etihad Stadium on 19 May.

Thompson is confident it won't take long for the players to respond to Postecoglou's ideas.

He believes the attacking style Postecoglou wants is not dissimilar to that employed by inaugural Victory coach Merrick during the club's dual championship heyday.

"He's already given us little bits of how he wants us to play," Thompson said.

"In a way, he kind of reminds me of Ernie Merrick because Ernie wanted us to play an attacking kind of football - when we got the ball, he always wanted us to look forward.

"We've been doing a lot of that in the last two weeks and you can see how much our training sessions have improved.

"He keeps it very simple. If we can get months of that improvement under our belt, then anything's possible next season."

He is also confident Victory can put churning through four coaches in 13 months behind it once Postecoglou puts his polish on the squad.

"He's very approachable, he likes to talk to the players and shake players' hands before training sessions," Thompson said.

"Everyone's excited to have him at our club. We've seen what he's done with Brisbane.

"Obviously, we haven't had the success at our club last season but, hopefully, he can bring in some quality players and, with the players we have here, you can see a little bit next week against Olympiacos."

McGarry was considering moving elsewhere after being offered a reduced deal, but in the end decided to stay in Perth for at least another year.

"My preference was always to stay with Perth Glory in a city that has made me and my family extremely welcome," said McGarry, who played at St Mirren, Ross County and Motherwell before linking up with Perth in 2010.

"It's great to be involved in a club that had such a great end to the season.

"The possible prospect of playing in the Asian Champions League is exciting and a big step forward for the club."

McGarry played a key role in Perth's run to the grand final, scoring four goals as a valuable foil to Shane Smeltz and Billy Mehmet.

"Steven is a clever player and a goal-scoring midfielder who made a big difference to our team when he played an attacking role," Glory coach Ian Ferguson said.

"Retaining Steven was important and I glad we've been able to hold onto him."

In the past week, Glory has re-signed Steve Pantelidis, Dean Heffernan and McGarry, while former Victory midfielder Nick Ward, Melbourne Heart's Adrian Zahra and Gold Coast's Chris Harold have also been lured to Perth.

With negotiations to sign Graham Arnold falling through Popovic, who also spent three years as an assistant at Sydney FC, is now regarded as the frontrunner.

But while Popovic, who arrived in Sydney on Monday, is reportedly due to meet Sydney FC officials on Thursday, the club's Football Director Gary Cole denied any knowledge of his presence.

"I didn't actually realise Tony's in town but that could be good news, couldn't it?," Cole said.

"Tony's been a Sydney player and an assistant coach here and he would certainly be someone that Sydney FC would consider. He would be a strong candidate.

"But while we were negotiating with Graham, we were working on a plan B and so have been speaking with three or four other candidates for a little while now.

"I won't discuss who they were but suffice it to say we've been in discussions with a number of people."

The one thing Cole would reveal is that Sydney wants an Australian at the helm after three seasons under Czech coach Vitezslav Lavicka.

Cole has dismissed the notion that the Sky Blues' new majority owner, Russian billionaire David Traktovenko, might look for a European coach instead.

"We've got a board meeting tomorrow and I'm sure that a European coach may be discussed again," Cole said.

"But when we started this process some months ago, we decided as a football club it was time that Sydney had an Australian coach, for a number of reasons.

"One, obviously they speak the language; two, they know the A-League - they'll understand the salary cap, which is a significant part of making it work here and they'll also understand the importance of developing young players.

"That's the reason that we pursued Graham and will continue to pursue an Australian coach."

Popovic is also being courted by the Sky Blues' imminent cross-town rival from west Sydney.

But Cole says the club will not get involved in a tug-of-war for his services.

"No I don't think it will come down to a battle. We can only do what we can do," Cole said.

"To think that you're going to burst the club's bank balance because you're desperate for someone - that doesn't make any sense.

"There's a new sheriff in town, we've got a new owner and there's a strategic plan here at Sydney and being fiscally responsible is part of that plan."

General manager David Dome confirmed that the Brazilian-born Daniel will not be offered a new contract after five seasons and 106 appearance for the club.

Daniel is still considering the next stage of his club career and has stayed in Wellington to complete the necessary residency requirements that will make him eligible for the All Whites.

"I've spoken to New Zealand Football and they told me FIFA have approved my application (to be eligible for the All Whites) which is fantastic," Daniel explained.

"Now it is up to Ricki (Herbert, Phoenix and All Whites coach) whether I am picked to play but the main thing is I will be available."

Daniel said A-League side Melbourne Heart and a Singapore club had approached him about his future but he was in no hurry to make a decision.

"Heart, where John Aloisi has taken over as coach, have asked if I am interested and I am sure we will talk some more," he added.

"But the main thing is that I will soon be available for the All Whites and I think I would be able to play against El Salvador and Honduras later this month if Ricki wants me.

"I have loved my time in Wellington and have had five fantastic years. It will be very tough to leave but hopefully I will be able to keep my New Zealand links through the All Whites."

Boogaard is contracted to stay with the club until the end of the 2013/14 A-League season and said he's now looking to concentrate on football.

"I always had plans to stay and continue my time here and am glad that we have been able to work something out," Boogaard said.

"I'm looking forward to the rest of the AFC Champions League and feel with the squad we have, hopefully we can finish the campaign off well and take this success into next season."

Boogaard has only missed one of the club's past 22 games since John Kosmina returned, playing a major part in Adelaide’s defensive line-up.

"I'm really happy to have Nigel stay on for another two seasons," said Kosmina.

"He's gone from strength to strength in the last couple of months and he's been really instrumental in our success in the Asian Champions League."

"If we get him fit I think he can be a real asset to the club and I think he has shown that in the last couple of months."

The 25-year-old has played a key role in the Reds' Asian Champions League campaign.

He scored the crucial first goal in Tashkent against Bunyodkor and has been part of a United defence that has conceded only two goals in five matches.

The defender has 87 A-League appearances to his name, including 55 for the Central Coast Mariners.

Kosmina believes that Boogaard adds value to the squad, not only with his playing ability but also his presence amongst the players.

"He's a leader, he's a really good club man and I think that was shown when he picked up the Best Team Man Award at the Presentation Night recently," Kosmina said.

"He's a player that is there for his team mates and for the club and that's important." Boogaard made the move from Gosford to join the Reds in June 2010.

But his first season with the Adelaide side was marred, after suffering a serious ankle injury in a training mishap just one game in.

The signing takes United's player roster for next season to 22, just one shy of the maximum 23 permitted for each A-League club.

Just last year Aloisi was part of Heart's playing squad but, after impressing as the club's National Youth League coach, the 36-year-old pipped Ante Milicic to succeed Dutchman John van't Schip.

Aloisi, the only Australian to have played in the English Premier League, Spain's La Liga and Italy's Serie A, has signed a three-year deal.

"I'm honoured and delighted to have been appointed head coach of Melbourne Heart FC," Aloisi said.

"When I retired here just over a year ago I didn't expect to be the head coach within a year.

"I enjoyed the experience with the youth team and when this came along I thought it was a great opportunity to get into the head coaching role."

"The club is well positioned to succeed, with an exciting young core at the heart of our team, and I'm confident we will be able to build on last season's success over the next few years."

Aloisi said Heart has re-signed 15 players for next season and hopes to have the squad finalised by the time pre-season training begins in June.

Greater consistency was pin-pointed by Aloisi, when asked what the team needed to improve on, with the hunt for a 'number 6' to control the midfield a key during the recruitment process.

"We need to make sure the foreigners we bring in are the right ones in key positions and the local players are the right ones too," Aloisi said.

Aloisi said he wanted Milicic, who is contracted to Heart for next season, to continue as assistant coach and confirmed that the club will add to its coaching staff.

"I want him to stay. We're good friends off the pitch too," Aloisi said.

"Ante is an integral part of this club."

While admitting Milicic, 38, was disappointed miss out, Heart Chairman Peter Sidwell believes Aloisi is the right man for the job.

"John's elevation to the role of head coach marks the opening of a significant chapter in our club’s history as we look to build upon the foundations laid throughout the first two seasons of our existence and establish ourselves as a force in the Hyundai A-League.

"The Melbourne Heart way is to provide pathways and develop from within, and John's appointment to the head coaching role is certainly reflective of that philosophy.

"We considered a number of outstanding candidates both externally and internally, but we ultimately reached a conclusion John was the right man to lead us forward as we continue our development as a club."

Sidwell also announced that Kappa will be Heart's apparel sponsor for the next two seasons.

Barcelona won seven awards including 'The World's Club of the 1st Decade' (2001 through 2010), best European club of the decade and the best team of 2011.

Pep Guardiola was named top coach of 2011.

Auckland City was voted Oceania's club of the first decade of the 21st century, after a string of successes including an unbeaten run during the last season in New Zealand's premier league, and threw out a challenge for an annual clash against the top team in the A-League.

The Kiwi side indicated its ability with a pre-season 3-1 win over A-League front runner Central Coast Mariners.

"It's been a lot of hard work, especially in a country dominated by rugby union but we're getting more on the map and making headway," said Auckland City board member David Cook.

"We are the first New Zealand club to receive international recognition and be acknowledged on the global stage. It will help us in our campaign to win the World Club Championship."

"We wouldn't mind challenging the champion club of Australia and can promise a good match after our win over Central Coast. I dont think we would fear any Australian team from what we've seen so far."

Among other awards on the night, Ruud van Nistelrooy was the World Goalgetter of the First Decade, Markus Merk of Germany the best referee, Arsenal's Arsene Wenger the best coach and the top clubs were Riyadh (Asia), Boca Juniors (South America) and Barcelona (Europe).

Neville's decision to knock back a new contract offer from Glory upset Perth coach Ian Ferguson.

“Scott was a player we wanted to keep so it’s disappointing has decided to leave,” Ferguson said.

“Scott has been a good player for the club - developed through our Youth system – and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Newcastle coach Gary van Egmond is in the process of re-building his squad, which had been delayed by uncertainty over the club's future.

Jets players had been advised to consider alternative playing arrangements as Football Federation Australia (FFA) and Hunter Sports Group (HSG) sought to resolve a dispute in which the latter had threatened to hand back its licence.

“Scott is a leader and a great character, he is just the type of player we want at the Jets,” Van Egmond said.

"It is a courageous move to come over here because he could have stayed in his hometown, where he has been captain of Perth Glory."

Goodwin, meanwhile, made his A-League debut in Round 19 against Melbourne Victory, where he was named man of the match.

“Craig is a great young talent that we are pleased to see him coming to the Jets,” Van Egmond added.

“He has a wonderful attitude and wants to become the best player he can possibly be.”

Jets also announced it would not be re-signing Ali Abbas, Jeremy Brockie or Tarek Elrich for the 2012/13 A-League season.

“All players have been great contributors to the club and we wish them the best for the future.

“With more coaching positions finalised in the next week or so, this gives these players the best opportunity to secure their future.”

The long-running speculation over the one-time Australia national team coach's future came to an end on Monday, with Arnold informing the Sky Blues he would remain with the Mariners.

Arnold has agreed to an extended, upgraded deal - believed to be $350,000 a season - that will keep the 48-year-old in charge until the 2013-2014 A-League campaign.

"It's been a tough decision and I am hugely flattered by the interest I received from Sydney FC," Arnold said on Monday.

"I am very grateful to Gary Cole from Sydney who has been extremely professional, understanding and respectful throughout this process.”

"But two years ago I signed a three year contract with the Mariners, and I have decided to see that three year term out out of loyalty and respect of the players, Chairman, staff and supporters."

In his two years at the Mariners, Arnold took the club within seconds of winning the A-League championship in a heart-breaking grand final loss to Brisbane Roar in February 2011 and backed it up by finishing top of the table over the regular season in 2011-2012 to secure another ACL appearance.

"We had a fantastic season and it is a big incentive to compete in the AFC Champions League again next year," Arnold said.

"Already my main focus is on recruitment for next season but also next week against Nagoya (Grampus) in Japan," he concluded.

Arnold was the Sky Blues' No.1 candidate to fill their coaching position, made vacant by the return of Vitezslav Lavicka to his native Czech Republic, with a $400,000 a season deal on the table.

But with Arnold hoping to delay a decision on his future until after the Mariners' AFC Champions League campaign, Sydney set a deadline of 5pm on Monday for a decision.

"The board, staff and players are all delighted that Graham has decided to continue his outstanding work at the club," Central Coast Mariners Chairman Peter Turnbull said.

Before last week's 5-1 ACL thrashing of Tianjin Teda that kept alive Central Coast's hopes of progressing past the group stage, Arnold declared that he would make a decision shortly.

''Out of respect for both clubs, [I will decide] by the end of this week because everyone knows there have been talks and they're waiting for a decision and I've heard that they have a plan B if I say 'no','' Arnold said.

''So it's out of respect for the good of Sydney to be able to rebuild and move on and out of respect for the Mariners. It's a tough decision that, believe it or not, I haven't made and at the moment I'm trying to make.''

Although former Sydney FC skipper Tony Popovic has also been linked with the Sydney job, it appears certain that majority owner David Traktovenko will now turn his attention oversees in search of a new coach.

"Sydney FC presented a very attractive offer to Graham based on the understanding that he was free to join the Club," Sydney FC Football Director Gary Cole said.

"We thought our offer gave everyone the best opportunity to come to terms.

"We had asked Graham for a final answer by today but we were presented with some last minute requests, which we were not prepared to meet."

One of those requests is believed to have involved Mariners Strength & Conditioning Coach Andrew Clarke joining Arnold in the harbour city.

"We have been working on a small number of alternative options for the Head Coach role and those discussions will continue," Cole added.

While Arnold's decision keeps off-contract Sydney defenders Michael Beauchamp, Shannon Cole and Scott Jamieson on tenterhooks, it is a massive boost for Central Coast, which last week installed former head coach Lawrie McKinna as its technical director.

The Mariners can now turn their focus to the 15 May ACL clash at Nagoya Grampus with a win securing a place in the knockout phase of the competition for the first time in the club's history.

He also won the players’ player of the year and members’ player of the year awards before claiming the coveted Gary Wilkins Medal for player of the year.

In the W-League awards, inspirational Tameka Butt was named player of the year while Aivi Luik won the players’ player of the year award in a season where the team fell just short of grand final glory after losing the decider 4-2 to Canberra United.

The 20-year-old picked up the club's top prize to go with other awards he received for his stellar season in Australia's top flight competition.

He was named goalkeeper of the year and the league's young player of the year for the second straight season at last month's A-League awards.

Michael McGlinchey was voted the fans' player of the season while midfielder Niko Stanojevic won the club's National Youth League player of the year award.

McKinna has signed a three-year deal after terminating his one-year stint in China.

The signing was announced by club chairman Peter Turnbull at the club's awards night in Wyong on Friday.

McKinna will begin work immediately.

”I have returned to the Mariners as director of football. Very happy to be back,” McKinna tweeted.

Young goalkeeper Mathew Ryan capped an exceptional season by being awarded the Mariners Medal as player of the season.

Midfielder Michael McGlinchey was named as fans' player of the season.

The club announced upcoming changes to its ownership structure and as a result long-term board member and vice-chairman Scott Barlow will take on the role of chairman.

"We are pleased to now be in a position to increase our shareholding and fund the club into the future," Barlow said.

"David and I have been a shareholder in Sydney FC since day one and our passion and commitment to the club is as strong as ever."

Traktovenko will reportedly own more than 90 per cent of the club.

Sydney will announce further changes to the composition of the board in the coming days, the club said.

Paul Ramsay and Frank Lowy will retain their existing shares but will not participate in future capital raisings.

Midfielder Pantelidis was transformed into a central defender at Glory and was one-half of a formidable partnership with Bas van den Brink.

"He came into the team and filled a variety of gaps especially at centre back."

Heffernan also arrived during 2012 and made the left full-back spot his own.

"We still haven't seen the best of Dean Heffernan," Ferguson added.

"Dean will be even better once he gets a full pre-season completed.

"“Both players are very good signings for the club."

Pantelidis missed the opening third of the season through injury before playing every game as Perth charged in to the A-League grand final.

"I'd like to thank Ian Ferguson and Perth Glory," Pantelidis said.

"When I returned from Indonesia I wasn't sure if I'd return to the Hyundai A-League and I am very thankful Ian gave me that chance."

The playing squad returns for pre-season training on 11 June.

The National Competition Review will look at the way state competitions are run and structured, establish more all-round consistency so they can underpin the A-League more effectively and support the player talent pathway established by FFA.

"In the past we have been criticised for ignoring the rich football history of this country," an FFA spokesman said.

"We have been told that we ignored all these clubs and leagues that for 50 years or more have been producing excellent talent.

"Now for the first time ever we are officially recognising them as part of the pathway.

"You could call it a shift but it's a fundamental first step from our part."

The spokesman stressed that a mooted 'B-League', involving promotion and relegation, is still a pipe dream.

"We have not done this to set up another competition with the prospect of having promotion and relegation," the spokesman said.

"There are many things that need to happen before we get to that point.

"This is all about strengthening the second tier of Australian football, which means the top league in each state.

"There will be no nationwide competition and certainly no second A-League.

"The whole purpose of the exercise is to give guidance to the clubs as to what a higher level of youth development looks like and what sort of coaching qualifications should be in place.

"The second tier of football in this country has to have a focus on talent development and all this is about taking steps to speed that up."

FFA's claim was supported by Blacktown City chief Ken Schembri, whose team competes in the NSW Premier League.

"If it was going to happen you'd think we would know about it, wouldn’t you?" Schembri said.

"I don't think it will ever happen for a lot of reasons. For one thing, the travel costs would be too much.

"The reality is the clubs just can’t afford it. The A-League itself has enough issues let alone adding a second tier.

"FFA representatives are working with us looking at the structure of the NSW Premier League but nothing has been mentioned at all about a national competition comprised of state league clubs.

"Sure, there is National Competition Review going on and everybody is supposed to have an underpinning program to the A-League.

"But it's not called a 'B-League' or anything like that and there is no structure in place for teams from the various states to play each other.

"It's nothing more than the various Premier Leagues around the country being restructured.

"The idea sounds half-baked and is a bit of red herring."

Postecoglou, who walked out on the Roar just days after guiding the club to its second successive A-League title over Perth Glory last month, will coach Melbourne Victory next season.

The hottest rumour doing the A-League rounds is that Paartalu has a get-out clause included in his latest contract with Brisbane allowing him to leave if Postecoglou was not coaching the club.

But Paartalu's manager David O'Keefe, whose Sydney-based agency Football Focus International (FFI) also acts for Postecoglou, said the defensive midfielder would see out the final year of his contract with Roar.

"Ange and Erik are very close and there's a high regard there for each other but there's no written clause in his contract to suggest he could get out if Ange moved on," O'Keefe told AAP on Thursday.

"There's lots of rumours flying around this week about (Brisbane) players who still have a year to go on their contracts.

"Erik won't be the Darius Boyd of the A-League.

"I'm not saying it won't happen and that he may not end up at the Victory at some stage, but that won't be in the next 12 months."

O'Keefe said Paartalu, who turned down "stupid money" from Korea (2011) and China (2012) to develop his game under Postecoglou, had recently attracted interest from European and Japanese clubs who were monitoring his progress.

"At this stage, there's interest from a club in Europe and I'm also looking at opportunities in Japan but he'll be playing for the Roar next season," O'Keefe said.

Paartalu, who turned 26 on Thursday, is hoping to push his international appeal if selected to play for Australia against Denmark in Copenhagen early next month.

A-League boss Lyall Gorman said meetings with fans throughout the western Sydney region where the club will be based indicated strong feelings on key decisions about the new franchise.

Among the strongest is the need to have West Sydney or Western Sydney as part of the name, as well as having one fixed home ground rather than spreading games around the area.

But Gorman said a big-name marquee player was proving a less important consideration for fans than securing talent with ties to the western Sydney region.

In other club developments, Gorman said

:: It is certain the club will be in place for the upcoming season;
:: A coach and chief executive will be confirmed within "the next couple of weeks";
:: Player signings won't begin until a coach is secured; and
:: A-League and Football Federation Australia officials have been thrilled both with the response and ideas from would-be fans of the new club.

Gorman said opinion from those at the fan forums - a roadshow which ends in Bankstown on Thursday - was that they wanted a club connected with participants at the grassroots rather than to be dazzled by big-name signings.

Gorman, who helped establish Central Coast Mariners before taking on the A-League role, did so without an initial big-name player.

"Bringing home players whose pathway's been through western Sydney, bringing home coaches who've done that, staff who are really connected with the western part of Sydney," Gorman said.

"The feeling's been far more about that than bringing home big-name marquee players who don't fit the ... shape this club is clearly taking."

Local products Tony Popovic and Ante Milicic have been linked with coaching the new club and Gorman admits a shortlist is in place.

FFA has promised fans a major say in all aspects of starting up the club, including name, jersey colours and playing style.

Coming through loud and clear is the need for the region to be branded prominently in the name.

"It isn't across the line, but the strong feeling is a name should have west or western Sydney in it," Gorman said.

"There's a strong message coming that way."

With Newcastle Jets salvaged from death's door to ensure a 10-team competition for next season, Gorman has guaranteed the new Sydney club will kick off in October despite only seven months' lead-in time.

"100 per cent lock-in, 100 per cent commitment, 100 per cent clarity that it will be," Gorman said.

"There's a lot to do, but we're working incredibly hard.

"There's a lot of excitement about the project and being able to hand over to the people of west Sydney a club that they'll connect with and excite them, and they'll want to be a part of."

With mounting speculation that he will join Sydney FC as early as this week, Arnold said his focus is still on the job at hand.

"While I am flattered by the interest from both Sydney FC and the Central Coast, my focus has always been on both the A-League and the ACL," Arnold said.

"I owe that to this group of players."

One player who won't be involved in the Mariners' crucial next match in Nagoya is Pedj Bojic.

The off-contract defender played a starring role in the 5-1 thrashing of Tianjin Teda, but earned the ire of his coach with his second yellow card of the campaign, earning him an automatic one-match suspension.

"Pedj is a good player and turned out a good performance, but it's frustrating that he will miss the next match," Arnold said.

"That's 21 yellows in two seasons. He has let both himself and the the team down."

Group G rivals Seongnam and Nagoya Grampus played out a 1-1 draw on Tuesday night, meaning a win will see the Mariners reach the knock-out stage of the continental competition for the first time.

If the Mariners seal second spot, a potential knock-out match against Adelaide United looms should the Reds top Group E.

In what would be a huge boost for the A-League, such a meeting would guarantee an Australian club would feature in the quarter-finals of the ACL.

O’Neill, 18, and Makeche, 20, both made their debuts in the lead-up to the club's recent finals campaign and are promoted from Glory's youth team set-up.

"Absolutely delighted," O'Neill said.

"To go into last season as a youth team player and then get my debut in the starting line-up for the senior squad was incredible."

O'Neill played three games in total for the season and got a taste of finals football when he was a late substitute against Melbourne Heart.

A central midfielder, O'Neill said the chance to now train full-time alongside former internationals Jacob Burns and Liam Miller will play a big role in his development as a player.

Born in Zambia, Makeche is also coming off a stellar season with the Perth Glory youth side. Makeche scored eight goals in his first year with the team and is similarly looking forward to the next challenge.

"Firstly, I am really proud to sign for Perth Glory," Makeche said.

"To play football with this club means a lot to me and I’m keen to do my best.

"We have great strikers at Perth Glory with Shane Smeltz and Billy Mehmet and I’m excited by the challenges ahead."

Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson said he was delighted to add more young talent to his squad.

"Both Brandon and Ndumba have been excellent and took their chance at the end of the season," he said.

"Getting some young local talent into the squad was always a priority and we are happy to have both players at Perth Glory."

The signatures of O'Neill and Makeche come after the club added 19 year-old Chris Harold and 21 year-old Adrian Zahra earlier in the week.

Clive Palmer was among those thanked by another FFA critic - Perth Glory owner Tony Sage - on Tuesday after emerging from the first Joint A-League Strategic Committee (JALSC) meeting convinced of a bright future for the league.

Sage was full of praise for FFA after 10 "critical" owner issues were addressed at the meeting, just hours after the governing body announced Nathan Tinkler's Hunter Sports Group (HSG) had reaffirmed its support for the Jets.

Palmer threatened legal action after being stripped of the Gold Coast United licence, but Sage believed the A-League owners' issues raised by the outspoken mining magnate and fellow billionaire Tinkler prompted a change of heart from FFA.

That theory was backed by news on Tuesday that FFA chairman Frank Lowy had flown to Brisbane to hold face-to-face weekend talks with Tinkler - with stunning results.

Tinkler stunned FFA last month when he announced his intention to hand back the Jets' licence because of "irreconcilable" differences with FFA.

But after the weekend talks, FFA had "resolved matters" with HSG - including the settlement of the ongoing Jason Culina insurance matter - to ensure it would keep the Jets' licence until 2020.

"I understand why Clive lost his licence but he put $18 million into the game and I respect him for that and his opinion," Sage told AAP.

"He did precipitate a lot of the media hype (about owners' issues) and the FFA may have felt they needed to respond.

"He and Nathan Tinkler have had a lot to do with it (FFA change of heart).

"You would have to ask the FFA but maybe they could see the dominos tumbling (after Palmer and Tinkler's departure).

"For someone like Nathan Tinkler to put his support behind the Jets - it is an indication of just how much the FFA have changed their thinking.

"And we got that positive vibe (at the meeting) that things were looking up."

Sage said it was not being melodramatic to describe Tuesday's JALSC meeting in Sydney as crucial to the A-League's future.

He represented the owners along with Peter Sidwell (Melbourne Heart) and Greg Griffin (Adelaide United) at the meeting also attended by FFA directors Brian Schwartz, Joseph Healy and Phill Wolanski as well as CEO Ben Buckley.

Sage said owners would save up to $3 million a year on "key issues" already addressed, with up to 20 points still to be discussed.

The JALSC will next meet in June.

"I have been openly critical of the FFA for many years - I think this is the first time I have something nice to say about them," Sage laughed.

"But we have been looking at other leagues for a guide on what is fair and we are not asking for anything that is not fair or unreasonable."

Tinkler said he had warmed to renewing talks with Lowy after discovering FFA chairman would fly to Brisbane just to meet him.

"I took that as a sign of goodwill. It was a gesture I certainly appreciated," Tinkler revealed via a statement.

"We now have a way forward and I remain committed to ensuring the Newcastle Jets is one of the most successful clubs."

The JALSC comprises Football Federation Australia (FFA) directors Brian Schwartz (chairman), Joseph Healy and Phill Wolanski alongside A-League club representatives Tony Sage (Perth Glory), Peter Sidwell (Melbourne Heart) and Greg Griffin (Adelaide United).

FFA CEO Ben Buckley participated in the JALSC meeting along with other members of senior management.

The meeting addressed a range of key issues and recommendations relating to the strategic direction and operation of the A-League.

Topics addressed included incentives for finals series participation, revamping the finals series format, next season’s 10-team competition structure incorporating the west Sydney club, community engagement and various membership, sponsorship and other growth initiatives.

“Today’s meeting was held in a spirit of co-operation with a clear understanding that working together will bring benefits to all parties,” Buckley said.

“The clubs will have a direct say in the strategy and policy direction of the Hyundai A-League, but the sharing of insights and ideas will be just as important.”

Perth Glory chairman Tony Sage said today’s JALSC meeting was a positive start to a new process.

“As owners and investors in the A-League it’s important we have a say and are working with the FFA in finding solutions together to our critical challenges,” Sage said.

Sidwell welcomed the establishment of the committee.

“The committee’s establishment is very timely and provides the platform for us to work collaboratively and with confidence in the future," he said. "The news today confirming the continued participation of the Newcastle Jets under the ownership of Nathan Tinkler’s Hunter Sports Group is also very welcome”.

The JALSC will next meet in June.

The announcement comes after talks that have resolved various issues related to the operation of the A-League licence held by HSG. As a result, the Jets under the ownership of HSG will continue to participate in the A-League competition.

FFA chairman Frank Lowy and HSG chairman Nathan Tinkler held face-to-face talks over the weekend. Lowy said the discussions were characterised by goodwill brought to the table by both parties.

“It was a good opportunity for Nathan and I to meet face-to-face and resolve the issues that had affected the relationship between FFA and HSG,” Lowy said today. “FFA has made some concessions in good faith in order to resolve the matters.

“When Nathan first took on the Newcastle Jets, I welcomed his commitment to running a strong and successful A-League club in Newcastle on behalf of the community of the Hunter region.

“Today, my confidence is renewed over Nathan’s personal drive to make the Jets and the Hyundai A-League successful. We agreed on a way forward that addresses the issues HSG have raised and we are now going to get on with developing the game together in a key region for football.

“With more than 10,000 Jets members and an average crowd this season over 12,000 HSG has demonstrated its ability to engage with the community and to run a successful team and club.”

Tinkler said that from time to time, parties in any business will have differences, but he believes there is now an opportunity for FFA and HSG to work together in achieving shared goals.

“Frank Lowy flew to Brisbane to meet with me face-to-face and I took that as a sign of goodwill,” Tinkler said. “It was a gesture I certainly appreciated.

“I welcomed the opportunity to meet and discuss these issues in person. We now have a way forward and I remain committed to ensuring the Newcastle Jets is one of the most successful clubs in the Hyundai A-League.

“I am delighted to be able to support the Newcastle Jets on behalf of football fans in the Hunter region and to continue to build a strong relationship with the community.

“When I first made this commitment I did it on behalf of the community and I am committed to further developing football and sport in a community I grew up in and am proud of.”

HSG remains unwilling to go into detail on the exact nature of the meeting with Lowy and will not reveal whether or not its demands of FFA had been met.

Key amongst them was a review and amendment of the Jets’ licence fee, to bring it in line with the fees paid by the owners of Adelaide United, and a settlement of the Jason Culina insurance matter,

“This is not the time for recriminations. It is a time to celebrate that decisions have now been made and are being made that will benefit football and ensure a much more secure future for the code throughout Australia,” a statement from HSG read.

“It will not benefit the healing process to elaborate on the Jets’ licence fee and how it came about, the long running Jason Culina insurance matter and what steps are now being introduced to ensure that the A-League becomes a great football competition with a sustainable financial structure and business plan.

“The HSG and the FFA have agreed on a conciliatory outcome. This is a great win for the Hunter region with the Newcastle Jets remaining in the A-League and the competition restructured with a more secure financial footing and base.”

HSG also appealed to Newcastle Jets members to forgive and forget after what has been one of the most trying times in the club’s recent history.

“We thank the many members, fans and corporate partners for their support and for the many that understood our position that was to take a stand when there was no other option,” the statement continued.

“Above all, to the players, management and coaching staff who showed your true support and loyalty, thank you. You are the true believers.

“We offer you our hand to come back on board for a truly exciting ride.”

Since joining the club in season two of the A-League, Brebner made 120 appearances, including the Premiership/Championship doubles in 2006/07 and 2008/09, claimed the 2010/11 Victory Medal and scored six goals.

Covic, an eleventh-hour signing on the eve of the 2011/2012 season, capped an impressive first campaign by being named the 2011/12 Victory Medallist, but with Tando Velaphi and Lawrence Thomas already contracted for next season, the 36-year-old was made way as Ange Postecoglou begins shaping his squad ahead of next season.

“When I first came out from Scotland it was a bit of a step into the unknown, but six years down the path I’ve enjoyed plenty of success here and I’m even an Australian citizen now, so it’s been a great experience," Brebner said.

“Obviously the trophies we won will forever be the highlight, but I’ve made a lot of great friends over the years too."

Covic expressed disappointment not to have won another contract: “I was pretty happy with my season last year and was hopeful of getting another contract, but sometimes things don’t work out that way in football,“ he said.

Meanwhile, Olympiacos confirmed it will be bring a full squad to Australia to take on Victory at Etihad Stadium on Saturday 19 May.

Speculation had been rife the Greek champion would rest a host of stars who also have Euro 2012 comittments during the off-season, but the club confirmed it will be travelling with Greece internationals Vasilios Torosidis, Jose Holebas, Avram Papadopulos, Yiannis Maniatis and attacking prodigy Yiannis Fetfatzidis.

Belgium striker Kevin Miralas, Sweden captain Olof Mellberg and former Manchester United Goalkeeper Roy Carroll, will also be among the touring party for the one-off clash.

Many Olympiacos stars welcomed the game as not only a huge challenge but also an opportunity to maintain match fitness during the interim period between the end of their 2011/12 campaign and the European Championships in Ukraine and Poland, which starts in June.

"Speaking on behalf of the players of Olympiacos FC, we are happy to be able to travel to Australia and spread joy to the Greek community there," Olympiacos star Yiannis Fetfatzidis said. "We will both give and get joy during our stay in Melbourne. We will try our best to please the fans that will come to watch us at the stadium.”

Speculation over the viability of Mariners continues as the promised cash injection from Russian investors fails to materialise. Central Coast resident Singleton, who tipped in $1 million to get the Mariners off the ground at the inception of the A-League, remains committed to helping the club survive should chairman Peter Turnbull turn to him.

Renowned sports fan Singleton retains the managerial rights to Bluetongue Stadium – Mariners' home ground – and his affection for the club runs deep.

A member of the inaugural FFA board, Singleton told The World Game: "It's been a struggle from day one for the Mariners. I put $1 million to help start it off, along with Westfield, just to get them going.

"I will do anything within reason to help them again. But I have no interest in owning the club because I have enough commitments elsewhere.

"I just don’t have the time or the inclination but that doesn't mean I won't help.

"I have never turned my back on the Mariners before when they have needed a hand and I don’t intend to start now. However they have not come to me. In fact, I've never had a conversation with Peter Turnbull."

Singleton is an avowed supporter of sport on the Central Coast, adding: "Up here we don't have a rugby league team, we don’t have a union team and the Mariners are all we've got. I support the Mariners and any sporting entity on the Coast.

"It’s been a battle all the way for the Mariners and probably always will be until these mythical Russians millionaires turn up.

"And the club’s success on the field speaks volumes for the people up here and the players and coaching staff."

While Turnbull is confident that the Russian investment will soon flow, Singleton says he knows nothing of the current negotiations between the club and the potential backers Turnbull has been courting since last November.

"I don’t know anything about the Russians other than what I’ve read. I’ve not met any Russians, I haven’t been to Russia."

Singleton, whose first passions are horse racing and rugby league, retains an interest in the A-League and is convinced it has a long-term future despite the tremors sparked by the axing of Gold Coast and Newcastle Jets’ bid to hand back its license.

"I was on the FFA original board when we got the competition going and sold the TV rights to a league that in effect didn’t exist," Singleton said. "We had no teams and it’s very rare you get a blank sheet of paper and are able to set up a national competition and get it on TV.

"People are critical over what it has cost and lost but that’s no different to many other codes.

"Teams have come and gone but you’ve seen that also in other codes. I have no doubt that it will keep going.

"The new TV rights deal which is being negotiated certainly won’t deliver less money and that will be welcome.

"The game out-rates rugby union and I would suspect it drives Fox Sports subscriptions more than union does as a result of that.

"There must be a team in Newcastle going forward, although setting up a team in western Sydney overnight may not be such a good thing. That said, I suppose we pretty much created the whole competition overnight."

Set against the backdrop of the lingering saga over the future of the Newcastle Jets and the death of Gold Coast United, the summit session between club and Football Federation Australia (FFA) bosses could hold the key to the future viability competition.

Mining entrepreneur Sage - who will be joined by Adelaide chief Peter Sidwell and boss Greg Griffin in talks with FFA directors Joseph Healy, Brian Schwartz and Phil Wolanski - believes restoration rather than a wrecking ball will be the outcome.

"I believe west Sydney will be up and running next season and I am sure Newcastle will remain in the competition, and there will be 10 teams," Sage told The World Game.

"It’s been the best year ever in the A-League in terms of quality and next season will be even better.

"This meeting is crucial and we’re all confident that the demands of us the owners will be met.

"It will make the clubs viable. Frank Lowy has promised us that this committee will have real bite and I believe he is a man of his word.

"We will see how many of the raft of ideas we have get taken up and how many get knocked back.

"There are all sorts of things we’re looking at: sponsorship distribution, seeking to create a situation where TV money covers the $2.5 million salary cap, travel costs.

"The next month is crucial for the A-league with the west Sydney team gathering pace and of course the negotiations with the Hunter Sports Group and Nathan Tinkler over the future of Newcastle.

"Whether it’s Nathan Tinkler still holding the license next season or somebody else, I am convinced it will be resolved by the end of this month.

"I am very upbeat about the future of the competition and I believe as owners we are now being listened to and our concerns are being addressed."

One of Sage’s main concerns is the cost of traversing the nation.

"At Perth we suffer from the cost of travel and I am keen to see an equalisation fund installed similar to the one they have in the AFL which helps teams with accommodation costs and the like.

"We spend $400,000 alone in accommodation travelling around the country and staying for days away at a time while Sydney FC spends only $80,000.

That money comes out of our own purse and that doesn't seem fair to me when other clubs are paying a fraction of that. It puts us behind the eight-ball each year."

Meanwhile Sage is still fuming at the fallout from his team’s last-gasp grand final loss to Brisbane Roar, insisting that Roar skipper Matt Smith should have faced a video review over an "elbow" which left Shane Smeltz with a broken nose, a severe gash above his lip which forced him to undergo plastic surgery.

"If that was an AFL game they would have looked at that," said Sage. "The replay Smith lifted his elbow and the incident should have been reviewed.

"And for the decision to go against Smeltz was outrageous. He couldn’t breathe and was in immense pain for the rest of the game before being taken off. It’s pretty poor how that has not been explored further.

"Then for Ange Postecoglou to say it’s disgraceful for me to say that the match referee Jarred Gillett had a conflict of interest is just plain wrong.

"I never said the referee was a cheat. I simply blamed the FFA for putting a man in charge that had a potential conflict of interest because his girlfriend works for Brisbane Roar.

"Why appoint him in the first place? That’s all I said. That guy has been hammered in the social media and will now have to put up with fans calling him a cheat for years to come.

"If he ever comes to Perth he will get nobbled and FFA should never have put him in that position in the first place.

"The referees boss Mark Shield knew about the relationship between Gillett and the Brisbane employee and put him in a difficult position. Ben Buckley agreed with me that he shouldn’t have been out in charge.

"I am also convinced that the penalty he gave Besart Berisha to win the game in injury time should also never have been given. For Shield to come out in eight hours and say it was a correct decision astounds me."

Sage will raise his concerns over Gillett, along with his numerous other matters at the Committee meeting. "The FFA just wants it all to go away," Sage said. "Probably because of what’s happened recently with the Clive Palmer and Nathan Tinkler troubles."

The Roar will do so with new boss Rado Vidosic in charge after Ange Postecoglou announced his departure shortly after securing back-to-back A-League titles last week.

Former assistant Vidosic faces a stiff task first up, however, with anything but a win at Group F leaders FC Tokyo meaning elimination.

The Roar has managed just two points in four games so far, in a campaign compromised by its focus on the A-League finals.

"We're fortunate that we have another game, actually two more games, coming up so it's a good feeling to be in charge," said Vidosic, who has already set about making tactical changes.

"Mainly we'll be looking at strengthening our defence in the midfield.

"We may go with two number sixes, two defensive midfielders, just to see how that's going to work.

"That doesn't mean we'll definitely play like that, we've still got our Plan A, this is just Plan B."

A point will be enough to seal Tokyo's progress though and they would be joined in the next round by Ulsan Hyundai if they take anything from the visit of Beijing Guoan.

A number of Asian heavyweights can progress to the knockout stages, headed by two-time winners Al Ittihad and wealthy Chinese champions Guangzhou Evergrande.

Al Ittihad is a point ahead of second-placed Pakhtakor in Group B and will therefore go through with a win in Uzbekistan.

Guanghzou are in the same situation in Group H although it is at home to Jeonbuk Motors.

Iranian duo Persepolis and Sepahan are also on the brink of qualification.

Persepolis' top-of-the-table clash with Al Hilal in Group D is arguably the tie of the round. The Iranian side is two points clear of its rivals, who could also progress with victory.

Sepahan is level with Al Ahli at the top of Group C and wins for both will send them through. Sepahan travel to last-placed Al Nasr while Al Ahli is at home to Lekhwiya, who is a point adrift of the top two.

Former finalists Adelaide United has been the surprise package of the Australian teams, putting a terrible A-League season behind them to top Group E.

The Reds will progress with a home win over second-placed Bunyodkor and boss John Kosmina wants to wrap that up before a tough trip to Gamba Osaka.

"We don't want to go to Japan in just over two weeks chasing a result," he said.

"Because as much as Gamba are bottom of the group at the moment, playing in front of their home crowd they've certainly got a lot to play for apart from pride."

Gamba will look to keep its hopes alive with a trip to Pohang Steelers.

The winner of the match between Group G leaders Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma and Nagoya Grampus will go through. The Central Coast Mariners and Tianjin Teda will look for their first win when they meet to stay alive in the group.

Al Jazira, the only club already qualified, host lowly Nasaf while Al Rayyan travel to Esteghlal knowing a win will tie up second place in Group A.

Mariners players are clinging to the hope that embattled Central Coast chairman Peter Turnbull will be able to dig deep enough to prevent Arnold walking.

But with a mooted takeover from a Russian consortium understood to have fallen through and property developer Turnbull forced to last week deny that he was set to hand back his A-League licence under mounting financial pressure, the prospects of Arnold receiving a 50 percent pay rise look remote.

Speaking ahead of his side's must-win AFC Champions League game against China club Tianjin Teda at Bluetongue Stadium on Tuesday night, Central Coast defender Patrick Zwaanswijk told The World Game that Arnold had been up front with the players over his future.

"We know Arnie has given the Mariners a deadline of until Wednesday to come back with something which he can accept and it’s really a situation between Arnie and the club," Zwaanswijk said.

"He's always been honest with us and has told the players where things are at. He's pretty much told us that some of the stories written are true and some are not.

"The thing we know for sure is that he’s had agreed terms with Sydney but has given Central Coast another shot to offer him something that would make him stay.

"We are trying not to get involved too much because our job is to support both the club and of course the coach."

Arnold's situation has been complicated by unpaid superannuation and winning bonuses and all indications are that he cannot afford to turn down the opportunity to succeed Vitezslav Lavicka at the Sky Blues.

"Arnie has put his own style into the team and has done a superb job and we’ve learned a lot from him," Zwaanswijk said.

"But if he does go we feel we're learned so much we can still be a successful team without him and with whoever comes in."

Zwaanswijk has not given up hope of qualifying for the next stage of the ACL with Mariners chasing its first win against Teda, which has also drawn three and lost one of its four Group G games.

"It's going to be hard now but one thing is certain, we must beat Tianjin to have any chance of qualifying for the next round," he said.

"We have yet to win an ACL game and we want to make a little bit of history by doing that.

"After that who knows. Our last group game is away against Nagoya Grampus in two weeks and we'd also need to take something from that."

Zwaanswijk puts the Mariners' 5-0 thumping to K-League side Seongnam Ilhwa two weeks ago down to a hangover from its A-League grand final eliminator loss to Perth Glory, a quick turnaround and a disjointed performance.

"We had to fly out straight after the Perth game and the disappointment of that was fresh in our minds," Zwaanswijk said.

"It was all so hectic and it’s true the loss against Perth took a lot out of us mentally and physically.

"The game in Korea was a case of too much too soon but we are sure we can turn things around.

"We haven't given up hope at all and we have had well over a week to rest now and there will be no excuses not to win the game.

"We want to make sure we’re in with a chance of going through going into the final group game. We know that if we can’t beat Tianjin it’s all over for us."

Tianjin, which has scored just once in four games, leads Central Coast on goal difference with the two sides drawing 0-0 on Matchday 1.

The 21-year old made 19 appearances for Heart during his debut campaign but none during 2011-2012 as he embarked on a lengthy road to recovery from a serious knee injury, the Melbourne club said.

Praising his tenacity and contribution, chief executive officer Scott Munn wished Zahra well as he moves across the Nullarbor to launch the next phase of his professional career.

“Adrian is one of the great success stories of our club, a Victorian Premier League graduate (from Melbourne Knights) who successfully made the transition to A-League football with ease,” Munn said.

“In successfully navigating his way through a difficult period of his career, Adrian has demonstrated immense character and deserves an opportunity to press his claims for first team football.

“Moving to a team such as Perth Glory will offer Adrian a chance to further his football development and we wish him well for the future.”

Glory confirmed the acquisition of young Zahra and fellow striker Chris Harold from Gold Coast United.

“I am delighted to sign with Perth Glory and really want to thank Ian Ferguson for the opportunity,” Zahra said.

“Perth had a great season and I’m looking forward to starting a new chapter.”

Harold will arrive in Perth in June after he completes his semester at University. He is currently studying law-commerce.

“I am really excited to prove myself at a club that made it all the way through to the grand final and got so close to winning the championship,” Harold said.

“Moving back to Perth is a fresh start and I’m keen to try and make my mark.”

The Magpies are expected to launch a bid for Good after the young defender impressed in a 10-day trial.

Newcastle has told the A-League club via email that the teenager had performed well, Melbourne's Herald-Sun reported.

Good, 19, was outstanding in his debut A-League season where he made 25 appearances and Heart's resolve to keep him will be tested when the Magpies make a bid.

Good's trial was extended and he spent the last few days training with the senior side, under the guidance of manager Alan Pardew.

Newcastle's offer is likely to be a senior contract.

"Newcastle formally wrote to us and they were extremely positive about Curtis's time there and him as a person and that reflects well on the club and the A-League," Didulica reportedly said.

Sources in Melbourne have claimed that after three A-League seasons Heart’s backers were set to follow the lead of Newcastle Jets chief Nathan Tinkler and pull the pin unless Football Federation Australia grants the cluba $2.5 million advance ahead of 2012-2013.

It’s understood Heart has lost close to $5 million since its inception and at Melbourne Victory’s end-of-season awards night on Saturday chairman Anthony Di Pietro claimed that Heart had approached six of his club’s current sponsors in a bid to raise revenue.

But an incredulous Sidwell scoffed at the claim that Heart was on a collision course with FFA over its continued participation in the competition after it made the finals for the first time this season.

"Any talk of handing back licences is utter nonsense," Sidwell said.

"Of course as clubs we are all working with the FFA through the Joint A-League Strategic Committee to make sure the A-League gets stronger and better.

"That’s all there is to it. We are looking to create a sustainable and economically viable competition and to let the game grow.

"There are issues that will be negotiated but right now the macro view is the most important thing and we can work through the micro issues along the way.

"The most important thing is to create a sustainable long-term revenue model which works for the clubs and FFA.

"Obviously the model is not right yet and that’s why there is so much noise and interest in whatever tweaking goes on to improve it."

Sidwell denied Heart would seek any financial aid from FFA, adding: "That’s not the case. All clubs need to be treated equally and we are not asking for any preferential treatment per se.

"We’ve been around two years and we’re competitive on the park and need to stay competitive off the park also, just like everybody else.

"We need to get the model right for all clubs and then each one needs to make sure it runs its own business sustainably."

Sidwell does not buy into doomsday scenarios over the A-League’s future, insisting: “I don’t actually feel the A-League is far away at all from being very sustainable. If a couple of things break our way over the next few months we could put an end to all the negativity which has created headlines lately.

"I feel we are close to healing the divisions in the game and look forward to a time soon when digging up scandals about which club is falling over or not will no longer be happening.

"That talk does nothing for the game. I am here to try and do something for the game."

FFA has its hands full already with litigation the likely path in its dispute with Tinkler over his relinquishing of his 10-year participation agreement and its commitment to funding a Western Sydney team in 2012-2103.

Sidwell, one of five wealthy backers on the Heart board, is one of three club representatives on the newly created JALSC which meets for the first time on Tuesday in what is shaping as a pivotal summit session.

The committee is chaired by FFA deputy chairman Brian Schwartz with fellow directors Joseph Healy and Phil Wolanksi also appointed along with Perth's Tony Sage and Adelaide’s Greg Griffin as the other two A-League club representatives.

And Sidwell insists that the clubs will work with FFA to create a more sustainable and ownership model to the one which has been under siege in recent months.

Heart is currently in the midst of a player clearout with Rutger Worm, Alex Terra, Kristian Sarkies, Kamal Ibrahim, Kliment Taseski, Maycon and Nikola Roganovic all let go and new signings on hold until one of last season's assistant coaches, Ante Milicic or John Aloisi, is confirmed as successor to departed Dutchman John van't Schip.

In his debut season with the Reds, Caravella beat out Osama Malik and captain Eugene Galekovic for the top prize awarded to the player that makes a significant and positive difference to the team's performance while also representing the club in an exemplary way on the field.

"It was totally unexpected but it' a lovely thing to get any award at any club and I’m very happy," Caravella said.

"I go out to play and do what I can and try to get everyone involved and get the mood going, but to win this is fantastic.

"I've won an NSL championship before and that was a highlight of my career and this is right up there, to have this award I'm very honoured.

Malik took out the Rising Star Award while goalkeeper Galekovic claimed his second Player's Player Award.

Other award winners were defender Nigel Boogaard for Best Team Man, while the Youth Team Most Valuable Player went to Jordan Elsey and W-League MVP to Abby Erceg.

The 27-year-old midfielder joins the club after a stint in England and spells with Melbourne Victory and Wellington Phoenix.

"It’s exciting to be returning to Perth Glory," Ward said.

"The club is coming off a great finals campaign and hopefully we can go one step better next season."

Perth coach Ian Ferguson greeted Ward with open arms.

"It’s great to welcome Nick back," Ferguson said.

"Nick has great energy and drive from midfield and can play in numerous positions.

"He ticks all the boxes."

Ward played two National Soccer League games for Perth Glory in the 2003/2004 championship season before starring for the club in the inaugural A-League season.

In 21 games, Ward scored five goals and was crowned the competition’s young player of the year.

As Ward arrives, Ferguson said the decision to release four players was “tough”.

Former Australia defender Chris Coyne, Todd Howarth, Josh Mitchell and Tommy Amphlett were not offered new contracts.

“It’s been a hard day,” Ferguson said.

“It’s tough to let four players go because they have all been good for the club and all contributed to last season.

“Releasing the boys is certainly the toughest part of my job but we need to make these decisions.

“The four players were extremely professional and we wish them all the best.”

Dashing fullback Josh Risdon was crowned the players’ player of the year at a special Chairman’s dinner.

“I’m really humbled to win this award because I have the highest respect for my teammates and coaches,” Risdon said.

“I’d really like to thank all the coaches for helping me improve my game.

“This season has been a great experience and one I have thoroughly enjoyed.”

In a breakthrough season for the 19-year-old, Risdon played 24 games and was exceptional in the club’s finals campaign.

Two days after officially taking over the reins, Vidosic for a moment contemplated Roar's worst nightmare - Golden Boot winner Berisha missing an ACL match it must win by three goals to keep its campaign alive.

Berisha finished Friday's session on the sidelines with his jaw being iced.

But Vidosic was confident the man who scored 21 goals in his debut A-League season would fly out with the team this weekend.

"I don't think there is any problem with him," Vidosic said.

One player not travelling is Brazilian winger Henrique, who will remain in Brisbane with his pregnant wife.

Life has been a blur for Vidosic since ending a seven-year apprenticeship at Roar by being named Postecoglou's successor - and he wouldn't have it any other way.

"It's fortunate that I have two more (ACL) games (this season) - we had a training session after the announcement and yesterday I was at home preparing for the Tokyo game so it's been full on," he said.

"It's good that we have a trip to Japan. It's what they are concentrating on more than anything else - we want to go over there and perform well."

If Roar was upset over Postecoglou's defection, it wasn't obvious.

"They seem pretty happy. Wednesday was one of our best training sessions and today was pretty intense - they look pretty switched on," Vidosic said.

Vidosic has already begun tweaking Postecoglou's winning formula, saying he will experiment with strengthening the midfield defence in Japan.

"But we still want to win our last two (ACL) games - that's the No.1 plan," he said.

Bakrie Group vice president and Brisbane Roar director Chris Fong has been appointed Vice Chairman of the Brisbane Roar board and will work closely with the club's senior management and the playing leadership group.

Club Chairman Dali Tahir will focus on strategic matters, working alongside the Football Federation Australia and Hyundai A-League ownership group.

After overseeing the transition from FFA control to the Bakrie Group, Michael Bowers moves on with the club's Chief Financial Officer Sean Dobson taking over as General Manager.

Dobson will oversee the club's operational management and has also been appointed to the board of directors.

With Rado Vidosic promoted from assistant coach to succeed Postecoglou on Wednesday, Dobson said he did not expect any other significant staffing changes ahead of the 2012-2013 season.

All appointments will take effect immediately.

It comes as more welcome news after a declaration from the club's hierarchy that there is no intention to hand in its A-League licence.

"If you look after yourself you can play quite late into your thirties," the 35 year-old said.

"Zwaany (Patrick Zwaanswijk) is a great example of that.

"I love the game and I want to keep playing for as long as I can at the highest standard I can.

"I had a couple of injuries which held me back when I was around 30 and it has taken me the last 18 months to two years to realise my peak fitness again."

McBreen is now turning his attentions to the club's AFC Champions League meeting with Chinese side Tianjin Teda.

"As Arnie keeps saying to us, the Champions League is international football. It's a great experience for the younger and older players alike and everyone wants to play in it. It's hard with travel, but it's a joy to be a part of," he said.

"We know we need all three points, and they're obviously a good team, but we've been pinpointing some areas where we believe we can take advantage."

The Mariners will face off with Josip Kuze’s Tianjin Teda at Gosford’s Central Coast Stadium on Tuesday at 7.30pm.

The future of the A-League club remains uncertain after Hunter Sports Group (HSG) announced it would be handing back its A-League licence 18 months into a 10-year arrangement, on the eve of the competition's end-of-season awards ceremony.

Last week's mooted conciliation talks between HSG and Football Federation Australia (FFA) broke down, with the former reiterating its intention to quit the A_League.

Now the dispute, which is the subject of a pending court case, is trickling down to the playing staff, with Jets chief executive Robbie Middleby confirming he told the squad there are "no guarantees" the future of the club is assured and they should consider other offers that may arise.

"I've told the players, 'If something comes up that you think is a better option for you personally, you've got to take it, because at the moment there are no guarantees'," Middleby told The Newcastle Herald.

"Obviously I said we'd love them to hang on and see what happens, because they're all quality players.

"‘But if they feel moving to a new club is the right thing for them, they've got to do that."

The deja vu is tangible for Middleby, who experienced a similar situation in the same role at defunct North Queensland Fury.

Though he expressed his admiration for the way the Jets players have handled the lingering uncertainty.

"I'm quite surprised I haven't actually had a player come to me to say he wants to leave because he can't wait around any longer," Middleby said.

"But I can tell you it's a situation where there is a bit of a merry-go-round in the A-League with coaches, and once all that settles down, the clubs will start looking to sign players. That's when players will start leaving."

FFA has been working on an alternative arrangement for the Jets ownership and has met with prominent local businessman Andrew Poole about establishing a community-based ownership model, similar to the one proposed for the western Sydney club.

Middleby revealed he hasn't yet been contacted by a representative from the governing body.

"I'm a bit surprised that FFA were in town on Monday to talk with Andrew Poole but they didn't try to talk to [HSG chief executive] Troy Palmer or myself," Middleby said.

"I realise there are a lot of things going on at the moment in the A-League, but Newcastle has to be a priority.

"There is so much talk about west Sydney, and obviously they have to get that right.

"But what is happening in Newcastle is surely the most important thing."

The Jets situation is of ongoing concern for FFA, which is also trying to establish a new club in time for the 2012-2013 A-League season, hose down persistent rumours Peter Turnbull is set to hand back his Central Coast Mariners licence and speculation yet another club is in dire financial strife.

Speaking to about 100 fans of the new club at a forum in Castle Hill, in Sydney's western suburbs, the head of the A-League said all stakeholders involved in the club are committed to getting it up and running, 12 weeks before the start of the new season in October.

"Nothing is simple in a three or four month window but we believe collectively we can bring the expertise around us and achieve the goals," Gorman said.

"We're very focused and there's a lot of commitment and determination to do this and make sure it doesn’t have a false start.

"Clearly the appointment of a head coach is important but the development of the culture of the club, the ethos and the values are equally as important."

Gorman stressed that timelines are critical but that players were already on the new club's radar.

"Be assured there are a lot of players at the moment who are already in the A-League circle who are sitting back and waiting for a trigger to be pushed here," he said.

"And of course there are a lot of players who are in the NSW Premier League doing the same thing," he said.

With another two fan engagement meetings scheduled, there's just under a week left for fans to share their thoughts in a forum capacity. According to organisers the response so far has been overwhelming.

Supporters at the forum on Thursday night expressed their elation that FFA was committed to a side in the western Sydney, a move many felt was long overdue.

But with the recent collapse of Gold Coast United leaving a void in FFA's preferred 10-team competition and a lucrative broadcast deal being negotiated, some fans were sceptical of the motives behind a sudden push for a second Sydney side – especially with a failed bid already playing on the minds of supporters.

Gorman, however, put minds at ease, insisting a push for a new club had nothing to do with a broadcast deal or the recent problems with other A-League franchises.

"Where the club has been fast-tracked is on the back of some extremely committed and generous support from the federal government, who have been able to provide some funding to work on those football programs that are so important to be able to establish a club in quick time," he said.

"Community programs, football programs, school programs, refugee and indigenous programs, all those sorts of things allow you to make the connectivity to make this successful."

One of the main concerns of supporters was the club's ownership structure, an issue stemming from the recent decision by Newcastle Jets owner Nathan Tinkler to hand back his licence.

A vast majority of the crowd were backing a full community ownership of a second Sydney franchise – a model, according to Gorman, that's currently being investigated.

"We believe there's an opportunity to look at a best-practice model around community ownership," Gorman said.

But he did put an end to persistent rumours that Central Coast Mariners could soon hand back its licence.

"You should dismiss that totally," he said.

The 36-year-old produced seven clean sheets in 26 appearances during the season to help him win the award - voted on by the club's coaching staff - ahead of Eli Babalj, Mate Dugandzic, Fred and Michael Marrone.

Bolton was honoured at a club function in Melbourne on Thursday night, with outgoing coach John van't Schip paying tribute to the keeper's consistency that played a big part in Heart's sixth-place finish and qualification for the finals.

"Clint's professionalism and thorough approach to match day preparation and training has allowed him to perform at an elite level for an incredibly long time," van't Schip said.

"Throughout the season, Clint was called upon time and time again to produce key saves and guide our defence, which is among the key reasons we were able to qualify for the finals series."

Bolton and Fred were named co-winners of the Supporters' Player of the Year and Eli Babalj recipient of the John Aloisi Golden Boot for leading goal-scorer.

The Clubman Award, which honours the player who has best embodied the spirit, character and values of the club, both on and off the field was awarded to Aziz Behich.

Necevski joined three-time winner Alex Brosque, Clint Bolton and Robbie Middleby in taking out the award, voted on by all members of the Sydney FC squad.

The 32-year-old spent most of the season on the bench behind Liam Reddy but made the most of his opportunity when handed a starting role for the last seven matches of the season.

His form played a big part in Sydney FC's run into the A-League finals, before the side was eliminated by Wellington Phoenix.

Sydney FC captain Terry McFlynn took out the Vitezslav Lavicka Clubman of the Year Award for his work in the community and leadership in helping the football department embrace the significant increase in the club's community program.

Playmaker Nick Carle was named fans' player of the year, teenage midfielder Hagi Gligor won the National Youth League player of the year while Teresa Polias took out the club's W-League player of the year.

Turnbull's stance comes after the Gosford-based club's failure so far to sell a 50 per cent stake of the club to a Russian consortium.

The Mariners are in serious financial strife and a successful takeover from the group that has strong links with Russian giant Spartak Moscow is seen as the only way to safeguard the club's immediate and long-term future.

However, the Russian group's procrastination in sealing a deal is seen in some quarters as a sign that it is not interested anymore in buying into the A-League.

This has led to mounting speculation that the deal is dead and the club's owner is frustrated and ready to hand back his licence to Football Federation Australia.

Advertising guru John Singleton is also believed to be interested in buying a stake in the club.

But Turnbull, a Sydney-based property developer who claims he has invested $6 million in the club, flatly denied that the Russians have pulled out of the deal and his club was taking this course of action that comes in the wake of the licence drama surrounding Newcastle Jets and Gold Coast United.

"If your query is about handing back the licence ... the answer is a definite no, I'm not handing it back," Turnbull said when asked for comments on the Mariners' plight.

"And the Russians have definitely not pulled out of the deal. I am in daily contact with them."

Despite the Mariners' success on the field of play, the club has been struggling to stay afloat all season, during which it was late with payments to its players and coaches.

Adding to the uncertainty, a cloud still hovers above head coach Graham Arnold's position at the Mariners.

Arnold, who took the club to a grand final and the Premiers' Plate in successive seasons since joining the club in 2010, has been touted as the next Sydney FC coach ever since the Sky Blues announced early this year that it was parting company with championship-winner Vitezslav Lavicka.

The current state of affairs in Gosford might encourage Arnold to seek greener pastures and accept Sydney's overtures, with Sky Blues acting chief executive Stefan Kamasz recently saying the club could make an announcement in the next fortnight.

One year into his three-year deal with Victory, Kewell does have an 'out' clause in the contract and the club admitted it is in talks with the Australia striker about re-negotiating the deal for him to remain in Melbourne.

Marquee man Kewell wants Victory to show it is moving the right way both on and off the field.

It is also understood the 33-year-old's new management wants to re-work aspects of his incentive-based pay deal, which revolves in large part around gate receipts.

Postecoglou's unveiling on Thursday would appear a positive sign, though he would become Kewell's third coach since he arrived in August last year at a club that has battled on and off-field turmoil.

Sources said Kewell's return to Victory would appear more likely than not.

But Postecoglou and club chairman Anthony Di Pietro stopped short of locking in Kewell as a given for the new season starting in October, admitting "contractual issues" were being discussed.

"Any good footballer fits in with my plans ... and Harry's certainly a good player," Postecoglou said.

"But obviously there are contractual issues there, and with all those things, I'm not going to pre-judge or pre-empt anything.

"Discussions will go on, obviously I'll start to get involved now.

"If we can come to an arrangement it will be fantastic.

"I thought Harry was outstanding, particularly in the back half of last year.

"He's added a lot to the A-League. If everything gets agreed upon, it'll be great to have him on board here."

Kewell is holidaying in England with his family, and is unlikely to play in Victory's friendly against Greek champion Olympiakos at Etihad Stadium on 19 May - Postecoglou's first match in charge.

Kewell has said he and his family enjoy Melbourne.

But having grown up in Sydney, he would be a hot property for the new western Sydney franchise planned next season.

"It's now about coming to agreement on the next step in commercial terms, and that's what we're working through," Di Pietro said.

Postecoglou's return to his home town was sealed on Thursday, agreeing a three-year deal with Victory.

No stranger to turning underachieving clubs around, Postecoglou made wholesale changes at Brisbane Roar, transforming the side from perennial under-achiever to back-to-back A-League champion.

Postecoglou said the lure of a different challenge at Victory, as well as a return home, were key factors in quitting Roar just days after another grand final win.

"As a coach you have to be like a shark and keep moving. If you stop, you die," he said.

"I'm better coaching on the edge. This is a massive club with massive expectations, it's got a massive fan base, and that presents different challenges."

While Postecoglou earmarked bolstering defence and midfield and adding his own backroom staff - especially in sports medicine - the 46-year-old said he would not rush into knee-jerk changes.

"I'll take the next two or three weeks to go through that," Postecoglou said.

"I've got to get my decisions right for this football club. If we want to be successful this year, I've got to be spot on.

"To be spot-on, you've got to have all the information at hand, so you're better taking your time and not rushing."

Eighteen months earlier, the Melbourne venue was where his Brisbane Roar was given the harsh reality check it needed to become an Australian sporting juggernaut.

On September 12, 2010, at AAMI Park, Postecoglou's Roar drew its footballing line in the sand after a 3-0 defeat by Melbourne Victory.

Beyond it, it was to break records, make and win finals, dominate the A-League like no other team, and re-establish two-time NSL championship-winner Postecoglou as Australia's most sought-after coach.

That day Postecoglou's Brisbane dominated the first half, failed to capitalise, and was torn apart by Ernie Merrick's Victory in the second.

For both clubs, it was a turning point.

The Victory – the self-proclaimed biggest club in Australia – never really hit those heights again in an up-and-down season.

It did reach the finals, then unravelled completely on and off the park.

Brisbane Roar, coquettish and pretty in patches under Postecoglou's command, was about to become the A-League's glamazon.

After that defeat, Roar would not lose another game for its next 36.

It would set a record unbeaten streak for any top-flight Australian football code, win back-to-back grand finals, and earn superlatives no other club team in Australian soccer has received.

Yet as a second Roar grand final win loomed, Postecoglou was edging towards the exit door, and towards the Melbourne Victory job he took over on Thursday.

The Postecoglou to Victory moves started in mid-March.

Victory flirted with signing Postecoglou the previous season once it had sacked Merrick, but had given up hope of luring the ex-South Melbourne star back to his hometown.

Its man was Northern Irishman Jim Magilton.

Brought in on a short-term deal until the end of the season, former Southampton and Ipswich player Magilton managed only two wins in 12 matches, yet had Victory's command in his thrall.

Magilton thought he was on a promise.

He was making plans. He spoke as if he was going to be in charge next season.

When questioned if he had the fulltime Victory job, Magilton seemed almost surprised it was being discussed. To him, there was clearly no doubt about it.

In early March, club chairman Anthony Di Pietro, key Victory officials and Magilton appeared at a fans' forum together, spoke of their plans for the future and were on the same page.

Two weeks later things had changed.

"We'd become aware that Ange was looking for a new challenge, and the possibility of that challenge being in Melbourne was an attraction to both parties," Di Pietro said.

"It was quite sensitive and difficult at the time. From our perspective it was leaving Ange alone to do what he needed to do at Brisbane.

"We dealt with Ange's management.

"Once both parties agreed and when Ange was interested in the challenge, we took that up with Ange's management."

First indications Magilton was on the outer at Victory came in late March.

Magilton met with a lawyer at the Brighton Hotel, in Melbourne's bayside.

A few days later, on April 1, a statement was released by Victory saying Magilton was heading back to Britain after refusing to be part of a shortlist to interview for the job.

By that night, wild media speculation had former Chelsea great Gianfranco Zola linked to the job.

But all along, Postecoglou was being pursued. Effectively, it was a shortlist of one. The job was his if he wanted it.

Two things were pivotal in making it all happen.

One, Victory had not committed to Magilton in writing. His short-term deal ran until the end of the season.

A board that had got so many things wrong in its tenure had got this one spot-on.

The goalposts had moved heavily in its favour.

Secondly, Postecoglou had not signed a contract with Roar the previous season.

The three-year deal agreed was in principle only, and had been made with Football Federation Australia (FFA) as it attempted to offload the club – eventually to Indonesia's Bakrie Group.

"At the end of last year the club changed ownership and the FFA took over and I came to an agreement in principle to extend my time at Brisbane Roar for another three years," Postecoglou said.

"But I didn't sign a contract at the time, mainly because the club didn't have owners at the time and I wanted to be sure that the new owners fitted in with my philosophy.

"When the Bakrie Group came in we had discussions with them about formalising the arrangement and that was progressing quite well. But ultimately I decided towards the end of the year, the time for a new challenge had come."

With Magilton there was always a question mark whether he could rebuild the Victory.

With Postecoglou, he's proved he has the answers. To the questions, to the critics, to how to fix Melbourne Victory.

He says he doesn't want a carbon copy of Brisbane Roar. He wants Victory to be the next big thing.

"I want to create something new, exciting, something hopefully better.

"You don't want to be doing what's trendy now, you want to pick the next one. You want to be playing the kind of football that's successful next year and beyond.

"That's my challenge as a coach."

Postecoglou is believed to have knocked back an offer from a Japanese club to take up a three-year, $1.5 million deal with Victory.

"As I started a couple of days ago it's a new challenge for me," Postecoglou, who guided Roar to victory over Perth Glory in the A-League grand final on Sunday, said.

"It's a big club, with big expectations and I'm really looking forward to the next chapter in my coaching career here at Melbourne Victory.

"This is a great opportunity and presents a whole new challenge and one that I'm really excited about, especially considering I’m a Melburnian, and I can't wait to get started.

Postecoglou said he would review Victory's playing group and its backroom staff with the likes of Harry Kewell yet to confirm where their futures lie.

"I'll take the next two or three weeks to go through that," Postecoglou said.

"I've got to get my decisions right for this football club. If we want to be successful this year, I've got to be spot on.

"To be spot on, you've got to have all the information at hand, so you're better taking your time and not rushing.

"I think there's some talented players he for sure," he said.

Greece-born Postecoglou will be the Victory's fourth coach in 13 months after Ernie Merrick, Mehmet Durakovic and Jim Magilton were either sacked or released, with his first match in charge against Greek champion Olympiacos at Etihad Stadium on 19 May.

"When we became aware that Ange was interested in a new challenge and the possibility of returning to Melbourne, we obviously engaged in discussions and have now reached an agreement," Victory Chairman Anthony Di Pietro said.

"Ange has been charged with the responsibility of shaping the playing squad to compliment his coaching style.

"Change and regeneration is what we believe is required to foster the next phase of success, and Ange's track record speaks for itself.

But Postecoglou warned against expecting an exact replica of the exciting, expansive football he was able to create at Roar.

"There are some basic philosophies that are the core of my beliefs in football, but I didn't want to replicate what I did in Brisbane, otherwise I would have stayed there," Postecoglou said.

"To me, it's about something new. I want to create something new, exciting, something hopefully better.

"You don't want to be doing what's trendy now, you want to pick the next one. You want to be playing the kind of football that's successful next year and beyond.

"That's my challenge as a coach."

A source close to Victory revealed the nature of the deal prior to the A-League finals, with the 46-year-old refusing to be drawn into speculation of a move while his Brisbane Roar side was contesting the finals.

Postecoglou will be joined at Victory by Roar's general manager of football Paul Trimboli, with his former assistant, Rado Vidosic, on Wednesday unveiled as Brisbane's new coach.

Vidosic has been the assistant at Roar since the club's inception in 2005 and players and officials on Wednesday declared they had complete confidence he could continue the success.

Roar director Chris Fong said he'd been in discussions with Vidosic for the past couple of weeks after Postecoglou indicated he was considering a return to Melbourne.

Details on Vidosic's contract are yet to be finalised however Fong stressed it would not be an interim appointment.

"We see this as an opportunity for the club to go to the next level," Fong said.

Vidosic, who is the father of Australia and Adelaide United attacker Dario, said there was no need for any personnel or tactical changes and felt he could build on its success in the Asian Champions League.

"I've been at the club for seven years, I've been here right from day one and we've been through a lot," he said.

"The last two years have been fantastic (and) it's a really exciting time in front of us."

Vidosic's first match in charge will be on Tuesday when Roar plays an ACL match against FC Tokyo in Japan.

Indeed the Roar squad sounded determined to prove it was no one-man show after Postecoglou confirmed on Tuesday he had resigned 'effective immediately'.

Postecoglou dropped the bombshell on his players barely an hour after the team was honoured with a ticker tape parade and public reception in Brisbane for claiming back-to-back A-League championships.

He is expected to be announced as Victory's fourth coach in little more than 12 months later this week.

But asked if any Roar players' contracts had out clauses linked with him, Postecoglou said: "I don't work that way mate.

"When I work for the club I would never undermine anyone (like that).

"Everyone contracted are committed to the club.

"I won't poach players, there's no reason to. That's not how I roll.

"If it (club success) doesn't go beyond one person I haven't done my job properly."

Roar has 17 players under contract for next season and seemed intent on building on Postecoglou's legacy.

"All the key players have signed new contracts and maybe we can get some more next season to make us even better - we have a big chance to win another title," Roar playmaker Thomas Broich told AAP.

"For us as players we already have enough incentive to make it three (straight titles) - it doesn't matter who is coach.

"Every good player, every good coach, they come and go.

"At first you are disappointed, then you get over it.

"Last year we had people like Matt McKay and many more leave and look at us.

"We are here again, we are celebrating (a title) again and we want to do it again no matter what."

Still the players felt compelled to release a statement on Postecoglou's departure on Tuesday, such was their respect for the man who helped turn them into champions a season after wallowing in second-last.

"He has been a huge part of many of us being at the club and helping to drive us to the success we have enjoyed over the past two seasons.

"We wish Ange every success in the next step of his career.

"While we appreciate all the effort he has put in, we are now focused on the next chapter in the club's history.

"As a playing group we are committed to the club, its ideals and philosophies and will continue to work hard in pursuit of future success."

Life without Postecoglou begins next week when it resumes its Asian Champions League campaign in Japan against Tokyo FC.

Long-time assistant Rado Vidosic is expected to take over the reins after all but being endorsed by Postecoglou.

"Rado has been assistant coach for seven years and I know he has ambitions to coach - I guess this would be a great opportunity for him but it's a club decision," Postecoglou said.

After driving across the border from his home town of Melbourne, the 18-year-old revealed why Adelaide was the perfect choice.

“I felt there was a good structure (here), it’s very professional and stable, and I just felt that the best opportunity for me to come and play would be in Adelaide so that was the main reason for my decision,” Barker-Daish said.

The teenager who spent one season with Gold Coast United has completed his second training session with his new team-mates, and has begun to settle well.

“I’ve had two sessions now and the boys have been really good to me since I came in and the standard has been good so far,” Barker-Daish said.

Despite his contract starting officially on May 1, Barker-Daish is keen to keep in shape for the upcoming Qantas Young Socceroos camps in June.

The talented midfielder has progressed from the Victorian Institute of Sport and Australian Institute of Sport, as well as representing the Joeys and Young Socceroos.

Like many of his generation, Barker-Daish grew up watching the sport on television, and there is one player, a Frenchman who has proved an inpsiration.

“I’ve always been a big fan of (Zinedine) Zidane…if anyone could be half the player he is you’d be happy, so that’s one person I try to model my game on,” Barker-Daish said.

Raring to go on his new challenge in Adelaide, the youngster recalled his experiences from last season and how it has made him stronger as both a player and a person.

“It was probably one of the toughest experiences I’ve ever had to face in my short career, so it was tough mentally but all of the boys were really good through it and the coach at the time Mike Mulvey made everyone stay positive and try and play at their best,” Barker-Daish recalls of his experience at Gold Coast United.

The club had entered discussions with the player, however he will now leave after his contract expires at the end of this month.

“Andre did well for us this season and we wish him all the best,” Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson said.

“With the budget cuts for next season, it’s going to be difficult to keep all the players together.”

Vidosic, who has served as assistant coach to Miron Bleiberg, Frank Farina and Ange Postecoglou since day one of the A-League, will be unveiled as Brisbane Roar coach on Wednesday morning.

He finally gets the chance to lead his beloved Roar after Postecoglou confirmed the A-League's worst kept secret on Tuesday by quitting the club, paving the way for him to join Melbourne Victory.

Vidosic will start work immediately and will take charge of Brisbane's next two AFC Champions League matches.

"I'm not frightened at all of the responsibility mainly because it's not completely new," Vidosic, 51, said.

"I've had an input in Brisbane's style as well.

"Some of the tactical aspects of our game are partly my ideas.

"Ange brought a different culture and a new level of professionalism to the place.

"I was still in charge of tactical aspects and had decisions to make while Ken Stead looked after the players' conditioning so we three were a very good coaching team.

"Ange obviously was in charge of everything and he was a fantastic leader.

"He demanded things from us and we delivered."

Vidosic, who was born in Osijek in Croatia, said he was not surprised to be promoted to head coach after serving Roar since the start of the A-League, also because of the club's intent not to rock the boat.

"I have not signed any contracts yet but everything will be sorted out on Wednesday," Vidosic said.

"I've been coaching Brisbane for seven years and I know the place. It's not like I'm coming from somewhere else.

"If there is anybody who knows Brisbane Roar inside out then it's me.

"I've been there and done that so it was no big surprise.

'I'm really excited by the challenge."

Vidosic said he was adamant that the flowing attacking football that gave Brisbane two straight championships for the first time in the A-League's history would remain the cornerstone of the team.

"It would be suicidal to change anything," he said.

"The club does not want to make changes to our playing style and that is the reason they have been talking to me.

"We have developed a game that really works and which makes it so hard to compete against.

"I might tweak a few things here and there but the essence of our attacking game will remain intact."

Perth captain Jacob Burns remained adamant Glory was "robbed" in Sunday's 2-1 loss despite opinions being divided over whether Berisha was fouled in stoppage time, leading to the Roar striker's match-winning penalty.

But Broich reckoned it was time Glory accepted the result and stopped complaining.

"It keeps upsetting me I have to say," he told AAP on Tuesday.

"If you look at the full 90 minutes Perth didn't create one single goal-scoring chance.

"And they are still whinging about what turned out to be a penalty.

"Is that sportsmanship? I really question that."

In contrast, Burns believed Perth had won new fans with its post-match conduct.

"It is a very hard pill to swallow. There was a lot of controversy around the penalty but I am proud about how we went about our business - I think we won over a lot of fans," he told Fox Sports.

Burns said he wasn't surprised A-League referees boss Mark Shield had defended grand final whistleblower Jarred Gillett this week.

"I am sure it is going to divide opinions but I was very close to it and I spoke to a lot of the Brisbane players after the match and the general consensus was that we were robbed, even by their own guys," he said.

"If they don't want to admit it and the referees won't own up then you can't change it - you've got to roll with it."

Burns was not getting any sympathy from Broich.

"We were the better team for 90 minutes. They were a man down (after a red card to Dean Heffernan) and we were pushing - one way or another we would have won that game," the 2012 Johnny Warren medallist said.

"The result reflected the game."

Still Burns pushed for video technology to be introduced to avoid further controversies.

"I think it has to be looked at," he said.

"You don't want to take anything away from the game but I think when it is such an important game and it is a grand final, these mistakes rob you of titles."

Broich and his Roar team-mates celebrated like worthy champions when they received a ticker-tape parade in Brisbane's CBD on Tuesday.

Broich and Berisha received some of the loudest cheers from thousands of fans, who packed King George Square for the reception that followed.

"It's a bit different, this year it was more of a challenge," Broich said of their second straight A-League title.

"Last year we took the league by surprise.

"This year we were about confirming we are a strong side.

"And the way we did it makes us very proud."

Debate is still raging over whether Perth Glory's Liam Miller fouled Berisha in stoppage time of Sunday's A-League grand final before the Albanian international converted the penalty to seal a controversial 2-1 win for Roar.

But there was no doubt in the minds of the thousands who packed Brisbane's CBD on Tuesday to applaud Roar's historic back-to-back championships - nor in the mind of Berisha.

A year after receiving the keys to the city, the team was honoured with certificates of appreciation from Queensland Premier Campbell Newman when the parade finished at King George Square.

And Berisha got the biggest cheer when he took centre stage.

"I am happy to celebrate the title," a bleary-eyed Berisha said as fans chanted his name. The colourful striker then led the Roar faithful into song after commandeering a microphone.

"I don't know if it is the drink or him that is giving me a headache," Roar foundation player Massimo Murdocca said.

Roar defensive midfielder Erik Paartalu had no doubt Berisha - the league's top scorer for the season - had earned his moment.

"He's lapping it up and rightly so," he said. "He is the heart and soul of the team."

The last-gasp penalty was not the only talking point swirling around Roar like the confetti at the parade.

The future of coach Ange Postecoglou appeared uncertain, with the mentor heavily linked with a move to Melbourne Victory.

But he seemed to give Roar a glimmer of hope when he told fans on Tuesday: "Let's make it three".

Barely two hours later Roar released a statement confirming Postecoglou had resigned "effective immediately".

Paartalu said before the bombshell that whatever Postecoglou decided, it would not distract Brisbane when it completes its AFC Champions League campaign.

"We would love to have him for the rest of our careers, he has brought the best out of us," Paartalu said.

"It would be a shame if we parted ways.

"There's been so much speculation, we will have to wait and see - right now it is about enjoying the moment."

The new Brisbane coach will be announced on Wednesday with assistant coach Rado Vidosic expected to take the reins, at least on an interim basis.

In the meantime Brisbane will prepare before flying out on Sunday ahead of Tuesday's away clash with FC Tokyo before concluding the group phase schedule by hosting Beijing Guoan on 16 May.

"That (ACL) was always going to take a back seat when we are trying to win another one of these but we will give it everything we have got and go from there," Paartalu said.

"From our point of view this season has been just as successful as last year.

"We didn't win the Premier's Plate (as minor premiers) but I still think our performance has been fantastic."

On a day Roar was honoured with a ticker-tape parade through the streets of Brisbane after successive titles, the chief architect of the club's elevation to A-League history maker was beginning a new chapter in his coaching career.

"I would like to express my gratitude to the owners, players and football staff of the Brisbane Roar," Postecoglou said.

"Their commitment and belief has created history for this club. "I have been very proud to lead such an outstanding group of men, and I wish the club every success in the future."

It's understood Postecoglou informed Roar's playing group of his decision before his decision was made public and admitted it wasn't easy.

"It was tough. It was tough for me and it was tough for them," he said.

The latest development opens the door for the 46-year-old to take the reins at Melbourne Victory, with an announcement sure to be forthcoming this week.

Roar director Chris Fong paid tribute to Postecoglou's impact on Brisbane but emphasised his departure would not derail the Roar's determination to become an powerhouse of Australian and Asian football.

"Brisbane Roar would like to thank Ange for his commitment to the club over the last two and a half years, and the considerable role he has played in its success," Fong said.

"We respect how difficult this decision was for him and we wish him well in his new endeavours."

Postecoglou will not see out Roar's AFC Champions League, with two group games remaining.

The club will make an announcement regarding the role of coach on Wednesday, as it prepares for its next ACL encounter next week, with Rado Vidosic touted as the man to step in to the role.

Smith felt compelled to defend Berisha's honour on Monday after the larger-than-life marksman emerged as the villain in Perth Glory fans' eyes in the wake of the unforgettable 2-1 win at a packed Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.

Glory claimed it was robbed after Berisha earned - and converted - a match-winning stoppage-time penalty despite some replays suggesting he stumbled after an air swing.

But Smith was adamant Berisha was no diver.

"I find it disgraceful. I have been listening to media reports all morning that Perth were robbed - excuse me?" Smith said.

"I looked at it in real time and thought it was a penalty.

"I saw the replays this morning and his left foot is clipped (by Glory's Liam Miller) - people who can't see that must be blind.

"Bes is five yards from goal. Do you think he will be taking an air swing?

"Bes is one of the most honest guys. He wouldn't be taking a dive like that."

Berisha made plenty of headlines this season - sometimes for the wrong reasons.

He had scored a record-equalling 19 regular-season goals - but was also remembered for challenging Sydney FC's Pascal Bosschaart to a post-match fight in January, earning a one-match ban.

But it paled in comparison to the post-match reaction to his penalty.

At one stage, referee Jarred Gillett's Wikipedia entry was laced with expletives as angry fans vented their spleen.

If Berisha was upset by the controversy, he didn't show it when he triumphantly arrived at Roar headquarters on Monday still wearing his championship medal.

"I am used to this in Australia. Every time we play good football and win an important game, they find something else to talk about," the Albania international said.

"It's a shame, because there was a touch (from Miller).

"I just saw some photographs and you can see clearly the touch.

"But this is the way it goes. Whoever loses will never accept that - this is normal, this is football.

"But at the end of the day, we are the better team - everyone knows that."

Roar coach Ange Postecoglou said Berisha was an 'easy target' after the controversial win but had no problem with the penalty, which was also backed by A-League referees boss Mark Shield on Monday.

"People always look for a villain," Postecoglou said.

"He's an easy target, I guess. But all he tried to do was try to score the winning goal after scoring a superb first one (to equalise).

"Beyond that, I think everything else was beyond his control. I didn't see him do anything wrong."

Smith dismissed a suggestion that video technology would have avoided controversy on Sunday.

"When I watch other games and I see key decisions go up to the panel, sometimes they take two or three minutes to make a decision - it kills the game," he said.

"In football, sometimes you get the decisions and sometimes you don't."

The dramatic 2-1 win over Perth Glory at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday made Postecoglou the most successful coach in Australian domestic football history, with four national titles to his credit.

In two-and-a-half years, Postecoglou has transformed the Roar from perennial underachievers to the toast of the A-League, effectively redefining expectations of how Australian teams are capable of playing.

Reflecting on his second consecutive grand final win, Postecoglou said he took great pride in his success as a coach and that he felt he was beginning to fulfil his life ambition.

"I keep bringing up how many grand finals I've made and won and I'm really proud of that, (because) it's what drives me as a coach," he said.

"I'm constantly seeking some sort of credibility and leaving my mark... I've worked really hard with the players and the teams and the staff that I've had to get those championships.

"Four is great and I'm really proud of it; it's almost overwhelming because I think when I started my coaching career I had some real ambition to do things that I hoped were great and I think I've made a bit of a mark now."

Postecoglou's work at the helm in Brisbane has made him the most sought-after mentor in the country.

With reports of a contract offer worth millions from Melbourne Victory provoking mass speculation over the past months, Postecoglou has been in a constant battle to keep his plans for the future to himself and focus on Brisbane's campaign.

The Greece-born 46-year-old had no fresh information after Sunday's thriller, asking for a moment to savour his success before looking forward.

"I'm going to enjoy the moment and us winning another championship and I think I deserve to bask in the celebrations we'll have over the next couple of days," he said.

"When the time's right and after I sit down and talk to the Melbourne people, the next move will be decided.

"I understand the curiosity about it, but from my point of view I've been consistent saying that I haven't entertained any other thoughts besides coaching this team to another championship."

While the overriding emotion in Brisbane was pride, Perth was left with a feeling of bitterness.

The Roar's second goal came from a controversial late penalty when Besart Berisha went down under minimal contact from Glory midfielder Liam Miller.

Perth owner Tony Sage was quick to flag up the fact referee Jarred Gillett's partner is a Roar employee.

"It (Gillett's appointment) is a conflict of interest and obviously the FFA didn't think about it," Sage said.

"It's a funny one ... conflict of interest issues haven't been dealt with well by the FFA.

"We'll be speaking to the head of the referees over the next few days just to see what his thoughts are."

Perth led the most controversial decider in A-League history from Ivan Franjic's 51st-minute own goal until Berisha's equaliser in the 84th minute, with the striker sealing the win from the spot seven minutes into injury time.

The statement claimed Adelaide was left with little choice but to accept a sponsorship from Clive Palmer's Group of Companies after it was unsuccessful in seeking support from the private sector and the South Australian government for its campaign.

While the sponsorship with the Palmer Group of Companies has now been overruled by the Asian Football Confederation, Adelaide issued a statement on Monday that stressed it only accepted the sponsorship proposal on strict commercial grounds and at no time did it contemplate any political undertones or criticism of Football Federation Australia or the structure of football.

The deal with Palmer was reportedly worth an estimated $300,000 to the club's AFC campaign and would have greatly reduced the financial burden which the competition invariably incurs on participants.

As a result of the AFC overruling, the club was forced to wear its black away strip against Pohang Steelers at Hindmarsh Stadium.

Adelaide is unable to have its A-League shirt sponsor ‘Coopers’ for the ACL, due to AFC Champions League sponsorship regulations.

It tried to garner support from the South Australia government, which had supported the team in previous ACL campaigns with its ‘Study Adelaide’ sponsorship and was disappointed with the government’s lack of support on this occasion.

With two games remaining in the group stages, Adelaide tops its group and needs just one more point to advance to the last 16.

The World Game understands Postecoglou rejected a lucrative offer from Japan and will be joined at Victory by Paul Trimboli, who was installed as general manager of Brisbane Roar last June.

Despite leading Brisbane Roar to its second successive championship on Sunday night, Postecoglou appears set to leave the club, at the conclusion of its AFC Champions League commitments, with an announcement to be made within the next few days.

But not before Roar's championship winning team is honoured with a ticker tape parade in the Brisbane CBD on Tuesday morning.

"We'll have some talks with Roar officials this week and I'm sure there will be a resolution this week and we will move on from there," Postecoglou said on Monday.

"Right now I'm enjoying being the coach of the championship-winning side."

Roar became the first A-League club to claim back-to-back championships after a contentious late penalty sealed a 2-1 grand final win over Perth Glory at Suncorp Stadium.

The victory was Postecoglou's fourth national title, after winning successive National Soccer League trophies with South Melbourne late last century.

"Once I complete the celebrations of this one, I will see what my next challenge is," the 46-year-old said.

"It is part of my nature that I am always looking to see what I can do next - that restlessness I guess is what is causing the uncertainty at the moment.

"But that is just the way I am."

Postecoglou was linked heavily with the Victory job before the start of the 2011-2012 campaign and, after a disastrous season on the pitch, the A-League's biggest club will soon have its first choice coach at the helm.

After a brief flirtation with Postecoglou after John van't Schip's decision to leave, Melbourne Heart will name either John Aloisi or Ante Milicic as the Dutchman's successor within the next fortnight.

Both assistants to Van't Schip have impressed during their tenures at Heart with a club spokesman confirming the ex-Socceroos strikers are the only remaining candidates after an exhaustive interview process.

Heart has already shed seven players from its playing roster but has put any further movements on hold until a coach is in place.

Meanwhile, the uncertainty over where Graham Arnold will be coaching next season continues with Central Coast Mariners eager for the one time Australia national team coach to see out the final year of his contract.

Arnold has been touted as Sydney FC's next coach as the financial status of the Mariners remains precarious.

However, a stumbling block to the switch may be Arnold's desire to have his current coaching staff follow him to the Sky Blues.

Debate continued to rage on Monday over Gillett's awarding of a spot kick to striker Besart Berisha at Suncorp Stadium, which allowed the Roar to steal a 2-1 win over Perth and claim back-to-back titles.

Glory players and staff claimed they had been robbed by the decision, claiming there was no, or minimal, contact from midfielder Liam Miller, but Shield on Monday praised Gillett for making the call "without fear or favour".

Shield also defended the appointment of Gillett for the decider, despite the fact he is from Brisbane and his partner works in the Roar's media department.

Shield said Gillett's officiating had been outstanding all season and praised his performance in the grand final.

"His general decision making was excellent, player management and game control, exemplary, and in my view he showed a great example for aspiring referees," Shield said on Monday.

"... Referees don't mind criticism on individual decisions but linking that debate to previous matches, the state in which the referee resides or matters to do with his personal life are out of order."

Asked whether he would have given the penalty, Shield said: "My very first instinct was (it was a) penalty at the time ... Like everyone else, I've had a look the replay and there's some inconclusive angles but there's one particular angle that shows, in my view, that there was enough contact to warrant a penalty given."

It is not the first refereeing controversy of the finals series, with Central Coast Mariners coach Graham Arnold angered by several decisions in recent weeks.

Shield acknowledged officials had erred with some offside calls but described the overall standard of refereeing "exceptionally good".