The coach of A-League club-in-waiting Gold Coast United said Adelaide United and season two champions Melbourne Victory have more legitimate claims on the season four title, which kicks off tonight (Friday) in Newcastle.

"I'm surprised why so many people talk about them like this [as favourites]," Bleiberg told au.fourfourtwo.com today.

"With so many players out and with two players at the Olympics, they are going to take time. Cohesion I think is what their problem is gonna be.

"And [Tony] Popovic and [Steve] Corica...they are not what they used to be."

Bleiberg was however complimentary about the Reds and Victory, saying their respective off-season captures have given both clubs a depth and balance that justifies the favourites tag.

"I think Melbourne will have a strong defence with Michael Thwaite and a very good goalkeeper too. And Adelaide will have quite a strong side.

"As for the other team here in Queensland, as I've said elsewhere, I think their defence could be a problem.

"But looking at Wellington, if they can keep [Andrew] Durante and [Jon] McKain for the whole 21 rounds they are the key. If so, it's looking rosy for them but I can't see Perth making the finals.

"It's hard to say with Newcastle as I have not seen the new players but with Central Coast, I look at them and they look a bit heavy, not fresh. They need a refreshment [of their list]."