To see their latest training session...

Thompson is currently the bookies' favourite for the Golden Boot and Allsopp believes his fellow forward is primed for another excellent campaign for Ernie Merrick's men.  

"Just watch him (Thompson). He can't wait to get started," Allsopp told au.fourfourtwo.com. "Archie is in the best shape that I have ever seen him and I'm confident he will have a good season."

Allsopp is close behind in the Golden Boot betting himself but  is adamant the focus is purely on the collective triumph.

"As a striker of course you want to be scoring goals. That's what I'll be aiming to do again," he said.

It's often harder to defend a title than actually win one and Victory's championship triumph in season two was followed by a campaign which saw them fail to reach the finals.

But as they again look to hold on to the crown, Allsopp feels stability could be the key this time.

He added: "I think you always learn lessons in football. Maybe after winning the league before you start looking too far ahead and thinking about title defences.

"It's about focusing on the challenge in front of you, the next game and making sure that you carry on doing all the little things that add up to make you a successful side.  

"There was quite a bit of change in the squad after we won that first title. This time we've kept the bulk of the squad together while adding some quality as well.

"We're looking forward to the season now and I think it's going to be the toughest A-League season yet. It should be exciting though and it's great to have two new teams in there."  

Victory kick off their title defence at home to Central Coast Mariners next Thursday in the opening match of the new A-League season.

To see their latest training session...