Nick Carle

In 2006 Carle was one of the most exciting prospects in Australian football. His flair, speed and brilliant finishing ability – the product of his Uruguayan and Chilean heritage, and an upbringing playing futsal – saw him shine vociferously during his time in the A-League.

He will forever be remembered by the fans of Newcastle Jets as a flashback to an old era, when the Jets were one of the most stylish, exciting clubs in the league. This is summed up best by Carle’s 2006 Goal of the Season against Adelaide United, one of the finest strikes to ever grace the A-league.

After winning the A-league’s highest honour in 2007, the Johnny Warren medallist moved overseas to Genclerbirligi SK, commanding one of the highest A-League transfer fees of all time.

Following his short spell in Ankara, he broke the £1 million mark in transfers to Bristol City then Crystal Palace. Yet Carle’s style wasn’t favoured by Neil Warnock, and in a cruel twist of fate, one of Australia’s most delicate, fanciful footballers was partnered with one of England’s hardest, no-nonsense coaches.

Ultimately, Carle would return home to little success. Following a prolonged yet unsuccessful battle to avoid retirement, he now performs scouting duties for Sydney FC, in addition to managing clinics for the Caravella Football Academy.

Mile Sterjovski

Sterjovski wasn’t a fringe Socceroo. He won 43 caps, scored eight goals and played three games at the 2006 World Cup, becoming one of Guus Hiddink’s favourites. He also had a very successful, extended career in the A-league, especially compared to some of his fellow golden generation counterparts.

But he was rarely given the same aura of his fully-fledged Socceroos counterparts, the likes of Culina, Grella and Thompson. Following a successful year at FC Basel, the 2007 Asian Cup was evidence of that. After starting Sterjovski against Oman, Arnold substituted him at half time. He didn’t feature again the entire tournament.

He wasn’t the most naturally skilled winger, but his precocious work rate was unparalleled within the side, he could score goals and he had the versatility to play anywhere in midfield

After finishing his career with successful spells at Perth Glory and Central Coast Mariners, at least Sterjovski attained some recognition in the form of his clinic, the Mile Sterjovski Football Clinic, that he manages in Sydney.

And hey, it’s not like Graham Arnold’s doing much these days, is it?