With voting for the Foxtel A-League All Stars due to close on 30 April, who do you think should be between the sticks?
With voting for the Foxtel A-League All Stars team to face Manchester United due to close on 30 April, who do you think should be on the team on 24 July?
Before the team is selected, let’s look at some of the players on the fringes of the squad, vying for a position to face the 20-times Premier League champions.
Goalkeepers
Ante Covic
The A-League Goalkeeper of the Season, Covic sums up the fantastic season enjoyed by the Western Sydney Wanderers.
After being released by Melbourne Victory at the end of last season, despite being the club-s player of the season, Covic was without a club until Tony Popovic called for the competition-s new boys. Plenty of pundits said the Wanderers were going to be a huge gamble – but it certainly paid off for Covic.
Covic was the rock of the A-League-s best defence this season, conceding just 21 goals in 27 matches. The 37-year-old has proven time is no barrier this season with his experience and ability to read the game essential to the Wanderers claiming the Premiers- Plate.
Is he the man you want between the sticks to face the likes of Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney? There-s no doubt that Covic wouldn-t be fazed by the occasion and his know-how in ordering his defence could be key to the All Stars hopes of an upset against United.
Michael Theo
If you-re looking for a player to represent the A-League, it-s hard to look past Theo. The most successful player in the history of the Hyundai A-League, the Brisbane Roar stopper boasts an enviable record in the local league.
Two premierships and championships with Melbourne Victory, a premiership and two championships with Brisbane Roar (including a record-breaking unbeaten run), three times goalkeeper of the year, and the most minutes without conceding a goal (876 with the Roar). Phew.
At 32, Theo is also still in his prime and has the advantage of having worked under All Stars coach Ange Postecoglou during his glory days with Brisbane Roar. There-s no doubt he would slot right in to the Victory coach-s side to face United with a minimum of fuss; he knows what Postecoglou demands and is able to deliver.
Both of these players are in with a chance to represent the A-League, as are the keepers from all the other teams. Voting for the Foxtel A-League All Stars closes on 30 April, so click here to pick your team and have your say.
