A-League 2009/10 preview – Brisbane Roar

A name change from Queensland to Brisbane Roar has been the main headline grabber for Frank Farina’s men this off-season.

The Roar, who will be joined by Queensland rivals North Queensland Fury and Gold Coast United (hence the name change) this season, have been quiet in player transfer dealings ahead of season 2009/10.

The loss of promising attacking midfielder Tahj Minniecon is the only real problem for Farina but it could have been worse with main striker Sergio van Dijk linked with a move away from Suncorp Stadium during the pre-season.

Key re-signings of Australian international Craig Moore, midfielder Matt McKay and young gun Mitch Nichols have buoyed the squad which boasts a great mix of youth (Nichols, Luke DeVere, Tommy Oar) and experience (Moore, Danny Tiatto, Charlie Miller).

The Roar managed a top-three finish last term but were edged out in the preliminary final by Adelaide United and with a team that had the second best goal scoring record and second best defence, any improvement will surely see them again challenge for the 2009/10 title.

Arrivals: Henrique de Andrade Silva (Formiga, Brazil), Matt Mundy (National Youth League), Adam Sarota (National Youth League).

Departures: Chris Grossman (North Queensland Fury), Tahj Minniecon (Gold Coast United), Hyuk-Su Seo (Brisbane Olympic United), Ben Griffin (released).

Biggest signing: Henrique

Biggest loss: Tahj Minniecon

Key men: Charlie Miller (attacking midfielder), Craig Moore (captain/key defender), Sergio van Dijk (striker), Mitch Nichols (young attacking midfielder).

Team list:
Goalkeepers - Liam Reddy, Griffin McMaster

Defenders - Andrew Packer, Luke DeVere, Craig Moore, Josh McCloughan, Matt Mundy, Danny Tiatto

Midfielders - David Dodd, Massimo Murdocca, Charlie Miller, Matt McKay, Adam Sarota, Mitch Nichols, Isaka Cernak

Forwards - Michael Zullo, Sergio van Dijk, Reinaldo, Henrique, Tommy Oar, Robbie Kruse, Tim Smits