By Neal Symons
Seven years ago, Ange Postecoglou was guiding the 2011 A-League Champions Brisbane Roar into the 2012 Asian Champions League.
Seven years later, Ange is still a champion but this time on a grander scale – elevating himself into Japanese and Australian football folklore.
Days after lifting Yokohama’s first title since 2004, Postecoglou’s return to Australia was confirmed when his side were drawn current A-League Champions Sydney FC in the 2020 AFC Asian Champions league.
Many questions have been raised over the future of Johnny Warren medalist Milos Ninkovic as it is reported newly born side Macarthur FC had allegedly approached him.
Golden Boot contender Adam Le Fondre’s contract is also up in the air, with the Sky Blues keen to keep the Englishman at the club for at least another season.
Elsewhere, A-League’s table toppers of last season Perth Glory in Group F have drawn Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai, China’s Shanghai Shenhua and the Winner of Playoff 3.
Despite suffering a slow start to the season, the Glory got off to winning ways against Melbourne City side away from home last week.
The question still remains as to which foreigners will be submitted for each A-League side as only three foreigners are allowed to be selected with an additional player if from Asia.
The Glory may be blessed as defender Kim Soo-beom will be able to utilise his services.
Finishing third this past A-League season, the Melbourne Victory will attempt to extinguish the memories of their disastrous Asian campaign this year, as they will face either Bali United or Tampines Rovers in Preliminary Round 2 of the Qualification process.
The winner of that match will move to the next round in Japan where they will face one of Kawasaki Frontale or Kashima Antlers for a spot in the group stage.
Victory have announced that their Preliminary Round 2 home tie will be played at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium on the 21st of January.
Photo by Etsuo Hara from Getty Images
