For the first time, the Wanderers have been able to finalise their off-season recruitment weeks out from their A-League season opener. 

In previous seasons it's taken the Wanderers time to gel, with some players arriving right on the eve of the season. 

The Wanderers have never won a season opener, drawing their first two and losing the next three - including a 4-1 loss away to Melbourne Victory in 2014/15, and a 4-0 demolition at the hands of rivals Sydney FC last season. 

However, Popovic is pleased with how the squad has already taken shape, and believes the Wanderers are ready to break that winless streak.

"That's something we've always tried to do but it doesn't always happen," Popovic said in regards to finalising his squad early. 

"It's not something that's critical to your success, but it's an important part of helping players gel quicker.

"All of the players are fit and healthy...that's been the best thing about the pre-season so far."

The Wanderers are looking to book a spot in the semi-finals of the FFA Cup when they take on Blacktown City on Wednesday in a sold-out clash.

"They're a very well-run football club, they've had a lot of success over a long period of time. It's a great moment for them," Popovic said.

"We know it will be tough. They'll get the respect they certainly deserve but we're expected to go through, as we should be.

"And we need to show the difference in class."