To see Pieter at Roar...


The Belgian defender was introduced to his new teammates at training at Ballymore Stadium today before coming to grips in his first hit-out in the Queensland summer heat.

Collen certainly signalled his intentions during the session, not afraid to bark commands to his new team mates in order to keep their defensive shape and as a renowned talker on the field, Collen's voice will be a crucial contribution to the side.

Dutch striker van Dijk believed the signing would bring positive things for Brisbane as the playing group pitched in to help the new recruit settle in.

"I think the people at the club here have to help him to do the right things," he said. "All of us have to help him prepare for the games.

"But that's all about being professional ... and I think it's going to work out."

Van Dijk, forced to acclimatise to Australian conditions in his debut season, said he'd offered Collen advice on overcoming the stifling weather.

However, van Dijk admitted Roar's newly acquired defender would find the hot and humid conditions a tough task to overcome.

"He was already complaining sunscreen wasn't enough for him," van Dijk joked. "So I advised him to wear some zinc. In comparison to me I came here in the Queensland winter and he's here in the Queensland summer.

"This for him is an exceptional day, especially if you're used to the cold in Europe now. I think it's almost a difference of 40C."

But with Roar staff and teammates lending a helping hand, van Dijk was confident Collen would slot effortlessly into be the Roar backline.

And Roar supporters will be hoping Collen's debut will be sooner than later, with the Belgian's European experience set to be a major asset as the club launches its attack on a top six place.

"He's played at some good clubs in Feyenoord and NAC Breda, and he always did very well so I know he can help us in the last couple of weeks in the season," van Dijk said.

"If you've played European Champions League and UEFA Cup, you're playing against teams who are physical, but also technical, so everything is combined.

"But over here people are more physical, but he is used to that."

To see Pieter at Roar...