The two good mates got reacquainted following the Phoenix’s captain’s run at Westpac Stadium on the eve of the match, posing for photographers and speaking to media about what promises to be a scintillating match.

Fred and Thompson last played together in the Victory’s 6-0 demolition of Adelaide United in the Hyundai A-League 2007 grand final, the Brazilian laying on four of Thompson’s five goals.

Thompson was effusive in his praise of his former teammate.

He said: "I know what he's capable of. On his day he is incredible and he showed that in the final two seasons ago, when he put them (the goals) on the platter for me to score.

“He was outstanding for us and for Wellington to have him for six games is a huge bonus for them.

"It was disappointing when he left but we've recruited well and got good players. But after his six-game stint (with the Phoenix), if he wants to come home he's got a place at my house.”

That admiration and respect was mutual, beamed Fred.

He said: “For me he did it the best,” he said of the Victory’s Socceroos strike star. “I can't say a bad word about Archie. He never have a chance in the game tomorrow – I wish!”