The former Middlesbrough team-mates remain good friends and Schwarzer believes he will be a major hit for both club and the A-League.

“I think they’ve got a major coup there because he’s a top guy and a real professional."

"Wherever he’s been he’s well admired by all the supporters. I got on really well with him and had a good relationship with him.

"He has a lovely family as well and I really can’t see it not working out.”

He added: “I haven’t spoken to him yet about going to Sydney but my wife has communicated with him via email but that was actually just before the Sydney thing came up.

"But I will be calling him shortly to find out what’s going on.”

Schwarzer believes that as a marquee player, Juninho will provide a complete package as far as on and off-field demands are concerned.

“He’s one of those players that just don’t give up," he said.

"He always gives 100 per cent and he’s a top quality player. He’s a very skilful player and I think people will recognize that very quickly."

And Schwarzer doesn't believe that 34 year-old Juninho’s age will be an issue.

“There’s no reason why he can’t [still perform]," he said.

"He’s still playing in Brazil and the Brazilian league is a top-quality league. He’s still going to be very, very fit without a doubt."