Melbourne Heart have secured the services of former Melbourne Victory Grand Final hero Fred.
The 32-year-old, who has spent the past four seasons win the MLS with DC United and the Philadelphia Union, has been lured back to the A-League by Heart.
“I’m excited to play for Melbourne Heart now,” Fred told Fox Sports News live from Washington.
“I look forward to building very good things with my team-mates over there.”
“I know they came eighth last year so I know about Alex Terra and the captain too, the goalkeeper, so I know some players over there. I read about this.”
Fred also conducted a web-chat with fans and spoke further about his aims for the season, compatriot Terra and the rivalry with his former club, the Victory.
“My aim is to try to put the team in the top six,” he said live from his home.
“I watch some videos from him (Terra). He is a very good player. He is good, skilful; I think we can build good things.”
“The rivalry … I don’t know because we have to wait to play. I still like you Melbourne Victory fans. I guess I play for Melbourne Heart now because I am professional (but) people in Melbourne are very friendly (and) wonderful.”
Fred received great praise for his performances in his one season for Melbourne Victory in 2006-07, where he played a major role in the famous 6-0 demolition of Adelaide United in the Grand Final of that year.
He left Victory in controversial circumstances, taking up a big-money move to DC United. He scored 11 goals in his first spell with the club, before returning for a guest stint with Wellington Phoenix in 2008.
He then scored four goals in 25 games when out on loan with Philadelphia before returning to Washington for the end of the current season.
It is hoped Fred can feature in the playmaker role for the Heart, and help the development of fellow Brazilian Alex Terra after the departure of Josip Skoko, John Aloisi and Gerald Sibon after the club’s inaugural campaign.
Former Roar, Fury and Sydney FC striker David Williams is expected to be announced as the club’s other big signing in the next few days.
