New owners, a new coach and an unbeaten pre-season run stretching into double figures has succeeded in making Aloisi and company the talk of betting shops up and down Australia.

Sydney might not be favourites with the leading bookmakers for the A-League title but the interest in their fortunes is overwhelming.

Whether it's winning the grand final, picking up the wooden spoon or finishing as the top team in New South Wales, fans are keen to bet on it.

A leading bookie told au.fourfourtwo.com: "As it stands we've had two and a half times the amount spent on Sydney FC than the next club.

"Obviously Gold Coast has had a high profile entry and they are second in terms of money."

Melbourne Victory are favourites to win the grand final in most cases with Wellington Phoenix tipped to pick up the wooden spoon.