3. Eugene Galekovic

He may be the only goalkeeper, but Galekovic’s position on this list couldn’t be any safer.

Like the very best captains, Galekovic has grown to symbolise Adelaide United, yet the fact he’s managed to do so from between the sticks makes his contribution all the more incredible.

Galekovic has always shown formidable loyalty and conviction as a captain. Adelaide’s number one remained the leader of a struggling side for several years before leading the Reds to the A-League double last season, becoming the first goalkeeper to do so.

Four-time A-League goalkeeper of the year and two-time Adelaide United player of the season, Galekovic has proven to be ageless, adapting seamlessly into Adelaide’s possession style.

Cool, calm and collected as every captain should be, with an intimidating presence – with 223 appearances and counting, Galekovic will go down as one of the greatest leaders in the competitions history.

2. Kevin Muscat

Words can’t describe Muscat’s influence on the A-League. Rival fans certainly have descriptions, although most of them couldn’t be published here, but regardless of your views on Muscat - there are few footballers in the world that have had a greater influence on one club.

The most polarising figure in A-League history, Muscat’s been there since the very beginning, from Melbourne Victory’s inaugural captain, to assistant coach, and then manager for the past four years.

A veteran of 138 league appearances and winner of two A-League doubles as a player - before adding another as a coach – Muscat and Victory are eponymous with each other.

With three Victory medals, two PFA Team of the Season awards and the captain of the PFA Team of the Decade - the fact that Muscat’s legacy in Melbourne cannot be overshadowed by other incidents alone is testament to his incredible captaincy.

1. Matt McKay

A reliable but artful midfielder, with composure, delicacy and an un-matched engine - McKay captained the greatest side in A-League history - his guidance compelling Brisbane Roar to an Australian sporting-record 36 games unbeaten.

This in addition to skippering the club to their only two Premiers Plates, both times securing the double.

He holds Brisbane’s all-time appearance record with 221 league matches, and is a two-time Roar Players Player of the Year, a PFA Footballer of the Year and member of the PFA Team of the Decade.

All that, and at 34-years-old, he doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere yet.

It’s extremely rare that someone comes along with McKay’s set of leadership attributes fullstop, but to boast as pronounced skill as McKay simultaneously is almost unheard of.

He’d get into this list on guidance alone - but he’s also the greatest footballer in the Roar’s history.