The Socceroo missed all of last season after suffering his knee injury towards the end of the 2010-11 campaign with Gold Coast, one that ultimately forced the 32-year-old to have a reconstruction.

At the time, Culina had been signed from Gold Coast as a marquee player for the Newcastle Jets, who were coached by his father, Branko.

But the news that Jason's knee injury was worse than first thought and that he would miss the entire season following his surgery infuriated Jets owner Nathan Tinkler, who parted ways with both Culinas just before last season began.

Sydney will unveil Culina at the ened of training this morning. and may even be a chance to play, ironically, against the Jets this weekend.

Culina, 32, who has played 58 internationals for the Socceroos including the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, today he was thrilled to be back.

“It’s absolutely brilliant to be back,” Culina said. “It’s something that kept me awake at night, thinking about playing again so I’m really happy and grateful to have the opportunity to continue my career so close to home with a club like Sydney FC.

“There were times I thought I wanted to give up but I knew that if I put in the effort and commitment I could get back so I never gave up on the desire to play again.

“I’ve had to put in a lot of hard work and some days it has been hard but I’d like to sincerely thank Stan Ivancic (Sydney FC physiotherapist) and the Sydney FC medical staff for what they did in helping me with my rehab at what was a tough time.

"Without them I wouldn’t be where I am at the moment."

Culina also expressed his joy at continuing his career in his hometown in front of family and friends.

“It’s always special when you play for a big club and when it is also in your home town it’s extra special,” he said.

“I just have to continue working hard to make sure I can get to the point where I can start playing and repay the faith that has been shown in me.”

Sky Blues coach Ian Crook welcomed Culina to Sydney FC, applauding his dedication to regaining his fitness and declaring the Socceroo a “great addition” to the squad.

“Jason has had to go through a lot to get to this point and we’re very happy to have him join Sydney FC,” Crook said.

“He has shown he is a tremendous football player, he’s now proven his fitness, his desire has been there for all to see throughout the last few months and we’re really happy that he has shown his commitment to Sydney FC.”

Sydney's clash against Newcastle on Saturday at Allianz Stadium, will be the first time local supporters have the chance to see marquee man Alessandro Del Piero in action, with former PSV Eindhoven midfielder Culina's potential inclusion being a massive lift for the side after their underwhelming loss in Wellington last weekend.