He might not be known to Australian fans but new Mariners coach Graham Arnold has no doubt star signing Patricio Perez will have a huge impact on the A-League this season.
Arnold is adamant the attacking midfielder will help bring back the fans to Bluetongue Stadium following the failures of last campaign.
The former Argentina under-20 representative is set to start just behind the strikers when the Mariners kick off season six of the A-League against the Melbourne Heart in Melbourne on Thursday night.
Arnold said Perez was the type of player fans love to watch. He is skilful, has an eye for goal and always looks to take on defenders.
Perez arrived at the Mariners in early July and has been slowly finding his feet at the club.
He has worked hard at training and performed well in two trials matches in Tasmania this week.
“I-ve only been at the club for a short time but it-s very professional, the people have been very good to me,” Perez said.
“The A-League will be physical and tough, I-ve got time to prove I-m physically up to it.”
Arnold will have some tough decisions to make in attack for the round one showdown with the Heart.
Strikers Adam Kwasnik, Nik Mrdja, Matt Simon and off-season recruit Daniel McBreen have all impressed during the pre-season.
Arnold is likely to play two up front with Perez playing just behind the strikers.
“I-m more than happy with the squad we-ve got together, things are looking good,” Arnold said.
