As we approach the beginning of the new A-League season, City Journal takes a look at some of the most talented players that you should keep an eye on in 2013-2014.
Photo by Crystian Cruz
1. Alessandro Del Piero
Not much needs to be said about the World Cup-winning Italian. Although in the twilight of his illustrious career, when Del Piero has the ball at his feet, it is still blatantly obvious that he is of a different class. The marquee signing has been quite simply brilliant since his move from Juventus -scoring 14 goals- and more is expected from him coming into his second A-League campaign.
2. Shinji Ono
After struggling with injuries and finding form overseas, Shinji Ono took the A-League by storm in his debut season (along with the rest of Western Sydney Wanderers), showing the flashes of genius that he is capable of once he gains a considerable amount of match fitness. After his side finished top of the league last year and narrowly missed out on a maiden A-League crown, Ono will be vital if Western Sydney hope to challenge again.
3. Michael McGlinchey
Michael McGlinchey was at the heart of Central Coast Mariners’ attacks throughout the previous season, causing numerous problems for opposition teams with his ability to open up defences. Despite a number of departures from the Mariners, McGlinchey has flourished in the role given to him, while his goal-scoring tally has also been impressive, making him a potent attacking threat.
4. Besart Berisha
The Brisbane Roar’s main attacking threat once again produced the goods when needed, scoring 14 goals, 10 more than any of his teammates last season. This shows just how valuable the Albanian is to his side, and how essential he will be to Brisbane’s chances if they hope to make an impact in the 2013- 14 season.
5. Mark Milligan
Since moving to Melbourne Victory, Milligan has established himself at international level and been subject to bids from English Championship side Queens Park Rangers. The 27-year-old has been the lynchpin in the Victory’s midfield setup, and his recent appointment as captain demonstrates the crucial role that he will play for Melbourne next season.
Shinji Ono – Photo by efcso1
6. Eugene Galekovic
Adelaide United’s captain and arguably finest performer last season, Eugene Galekovic produced a number of match-winning displays to push the Reds into the top four. His performances also earned him a call-up to the Socceroos camp, and with the position for the national team’s second choice keeper still up for grabs, the 32 year-old will want to keep his good form going to score a chance of going to next year’s World Cup in Brazil.
7. Daniel McBreen
Finishing top scorer last season with 19 goals, the 36-year-old has continued to go from strength to strength for Central Coast, helping them claim the A-League title with his goal-scoring prowess. Like fine wine, McBreen has only been improving with age, and he will continue to pose a serious threat to opposition sides in the upcoming season.
8. Jeremy Brockie
After leaving Newcastle Jets, Jeremy Brockie has shined at Wellington Phoenix, bagging 16 goals last season despite his side finishing bottom of the A-League table. If he can continue his impressive goal-scoring form, the golden boot will be well within reach again next season, as well as the possibility of lifting Wellington from the bottom of the ladder.
9. Guilherme Finkler
Before his unfortunate injury lay-off, Finkler had provided the most assists in the competition, beating the likes of teammate Marcos Rojas and Western Sydney’s Youssouf Hersi. Although he may be eased back into action following his recent return, if Melbourne Victory’s number seven can get back to his best, he will no doubt terrorise defences and give the boys in blue a real chance of securing another A-League crown.
10. Nikolai Topor-Stanley
In the midst of Western Sydney Wanderers’ fairytale first season, the plaudits went mainly to their wealth of attacking talent, but Topor-Stanley’s no-nonsense role at the back played a pivotal part in their early success. The 28-year-old from Canberra will once again have an important part to play this season, in order to ensure that Western Sydney’s second season is better than their first.
