By Jon Ritson

The former Socceroo was due to start his rehabilitation program at the Members Equity Stadium this morning although off the field matters continue to have a bearing before he is able to kick a ball in anger once again.

Lazaridis underwent minor groin surgery during the off-season. While the surgeon’s knife interrupted his build-up for the new campaign, Lazardis’s situation has been further complicated by the uncertainty over his playing future.

He appeared before an anti-doping tribunal last month and a decision is still pending.

Both the club and player are bound by Football Federation Australia anti-doping regulations. This means neither can comment until the matter has been resolved.

Until such time Laziridis will continue his rehabilitation program alongside his team mates.

Lazaridis last played for Perth in December, shortly after the drug test was performed. He was ruled out for the rest of the season with his groin injury after the game against Sydney FC on December 14.

Meanwhile, Glory is closing in on Hayden Foxe with ex Melbourne Victory striker James Robinson also in the frame.

Coach Ron Smith said: “He (Robinson) has been on the radar for quite a while, even going back to last season. He's been over this week and I've been impressed with what I've seen.

“He's obviously got a nose for goal because he's scored seven in the last nine at Marconi."

As for Foxe, contract negotiations are in their final stages and the 30-year-old could put pen to paper by the end of the week.

Smith said: “I met with him and spoke to him while he was playing with West Ham in the Premier League. He always sort of said 'one day Ronny it would be great if I played in a team you coached', so now we've got the opportunity."