At this week's coaches' forum in Sydney, the other seven bosses were quick to pick out John Kosmina's side as the team to beat.

One of Australia's bookmakers has now released its prices for the new campaign and Sydney are tipped for the top.

The acquisition of John Aloisi, Mark Bridge, Simon Colosimo, Stuart Musialik and Mitchell Prentice have seen the Moore Park outfit priced at $3.25 to win season four.

Last season's champions Newcastle Jets are only sixth favourite to repeat the feat, priced at $10.

Minor premiers Central Coast Mariners are fourth favourites to win the grand final at $7.

Melbourne Victory are the team tipped to chase Sydney hardest for top spot with Ernie Merrick's men priced at $5.

Glenn Munsie of TAB Sportsbet told au.fourfourtwo.com: "Betting on the A-League has increased dramatically over the last two years and another bumper year is expected.

"Crowds are also strong and glamour club Sydney FC have been posted as favourites to take the 08/09 title with marquee signing John Aloisi set to continue the form he showed last year for the Central Coast Mariners.

"The depth of the competition is shown by the fact that last year's grand finalists are rated as 4th and 6th picks in order for this year's competition."

Ricki Herbert and Dave Mitchell are both confident of improving on their seventh and eighth finishes last season but the odds don't share their confidence.

Phoenix are $2.50 to finish with the wooden spoon again with Glory at $2.65. Phoenix and Glory fans are offered $21 on their respective teams tasting grand final success in February next year.

Those who don't share the optimism surrounding Sydney FC are offered a price of $51 for Kosmina's men finishing bottom of the pile.