Q: How positive should Phoenix fans be about the new season?
A: Somewhere between cautiously optimistic and quietly confident. The squad coach Ernie Merrick has assembled rivals any previous Phoenix roster and the acquisition, in particular, of attackers Kosta Barbarouses and Gui Finkler from Melbourne Victory is exciting. They are two of the most potent and creative players in the A-League and will add plenty of firepower to a Phoenix frontline that already boasts high-calibre attacking players like Roly Bonevacia, Michael McGlinchey and Roy Krishna.
Q:But what about the defence? Didn't the Phoenix concede too many goals last season?
A: Yes, 54 to be exact, the second-worst in the A-League. The departures of long-time defenders Ben Sigmund (retired) and Manny Muscat (to Melbourne City) also leave some big holes in the squad. Merrick apparently sifted through close to 100 CVs before deciding on Italian Marco Rossi as Sigmund's replacement. He looks a classy and composed player who will partner skipper Andrew Durante in central defence. Confident Australian youngster Jacob Tratt will get first run at right back and Tom Doyle made big strides at left back last season. Dylan Fox adds youth and pace and Louis Fenton brings versatility. Defence has been a definite off-season focus.