“Harry still has a lot to offer,” the Queensland Roar coach told au.fourfourtwo.com.

“Yes, he’s had his injuries but I just don’t think he’s ready to comeback to the A-League right now.”

Kewell was in Sydney a week ago to have treatment on a strained groin. Although the injury was not serious, the Liverpool winger hinted in a TV interview with the Nine Network that “a return may just be around the corner”.

What is more likely is that, as has been reported, Kewell will return after the 2010 World Cup to help fund and promote the west Sydney franchise, earmarked to kick off in August that year.

And at 32, Kewell would still be young enough to play for such a club should he wish.

As for the present day A-League, Farina – in Sydney for a series of coaching clinics sponsored by Tip Top bread - has heaped the pressure on rivals Sydney FC, saying: “They are the early favourites for the title, no doubt.

"But that shouldn’t be a problem for Kossie [coach John Kosmina]. He has no problems with pressure.”

And responding to Sydney’s impressive recruitment drive, Farina joked: “That salary cap might be a bit tight now. Could they afford to buy any more players?”