With all the arrival hype and media commitments out of the way, Italian superstar Alessandro Del Piero finally got down to what he knows best, completing his first Sydney FC training session on Tuesday.
With all the arrival hype and media commitments out of the way, Italian superstar Alessandro Del Piero finally got down to what he knows best, completing his first Sydney FC training session on Tuesday.
After meeting his new teammates in the Allianz Stadium dressing rooms, the 37-year-old then completed a light 50-minute training session in warm conditions in Sydney.
Like a young boy starting at a new school, the Sydney squad kept their distance early on before getting into the groove and warming to their new high-profile teammate.
Unfortunately for the large media contingent there was no opportunity to see any of Del Piero’s trademark ability in front of goal with the session restricted to some light running and various passing drills.
Sydney FC coach Ian Crook said it was too early for Del Piero to take part in the club’s final pre-season friendly against Newcastle on Saturday.
But the veteran forward will play in a trial match behind closed doors next week to get ready for the Sky Blues’ A-League opener away to Wellington on October 6.
“It’s always difficult at the beginning because everyone wants a little part of him which is fair enough,” Crook said on Tuesday of the circus surrounding Del Piero.
“In time it will wane and we’re certainly expecting it to be like a circus for a bit.
“But it’s a fantastic addition for our game and our club.
“He’s a great guy and he just wants to play. That’s what here to do.
“Today he wasn’t going to do a great deal yet he stayed and did the whole session which was good.”
Crook confirmed Terry McFlynn would remain as captain of the side although Del Piero would definitely be a part of the club’s leadership group.
Asked where the former Juventus star would play, Crook said it would be in the “No.9 or 10 role”.
“That’s where made his career,” the Sky Blues boss said.
“I’m not going to go and re-adjust it now and turn him into something he isn’t.
“I’ll sit and speak to him but he’ll certainly be in that front third.”
Socceroos midfielder Jason Culina is still training with the Sky Blues as he recovers from a knee injury.
Crook said they would continue to monitor Culina’s progress with a view to possibly signing him to play a part this season.
