The A-League may have a stale feeling about it but the 2018/19 season, which commences next weekend, has some new blood in the form of foreign recruits offering a touch of freshness to the competition.
FTBL takes a look at seven of the new imports who we think will shine this season.
Keisuke Honda – Melbourne Victory
It doesn’t take Einstein to realise the Japan international is going to be an excitement machine this season. The beach blonde hair, the wicked free-kicks, the level of expectation, all create one unique individual who’ll hopefully deliver. Honda arrives still at a good age too, only 32, fresh from scoring at the 2018 World Cup, so there’s no retirement package excuses.
Ola Toivonen – Melbourne Victory
Likewise, there’s no secrets about Victory’s other glamour signing. The Sweden international also netted recently at the World Cup against no-less than Germany, offering a glimpse into his quality. He’s played in the English Premier League along with the Dutch and French top flights, so the striker can cut it at the top.

Jair – Newcastle Jets
The Brazilian has been a nomad around Asian leagues for the past seven years with mixed success but he’s only 30 and has reportedly attacked pre-season at Newcastle with genuine intent to impress. Jets assistant Clayton Zane said: “He’s two footed, he’s sharp, he’s got great touches, he can dribble, he’s got a bit of everything which really excites me.”
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