Colosimo named captain

Former Sydney FC and Perth Glory veteran Simon Colosimo has been given the honour of leading Melbourne Heart in their inaugural campaign in the upcoming Hyundai A-league season. In a poll asked to The Football Sack readers in relation to the captaincy, Colosimo was beaten out by teammate Josip Skoko, highlighting that the decision for coach John van't Schip was always going to be tough.
“As a club, we are very lucky to have so many players with proven leadership qualities,” van ‘t Schip said. “Simon’s appointment as Captain however works very well for the club as he is a Melbourne boy and he has shown great faith in Melbourne Heart FC by committing to us for the long term.

“As a player, he is a natural leader and clearly has great respect among Australia’s professional footballers." Correct. Simon is currently the President of the Players Football Association, and has been capped 26 times for the Qantas Socceroos.

“Through his work with the players association and already in his short time with us, Simon has demonstrated he cares for his team-mates. On the field, he is a proven winner who will be able to lead by example.” Van't Schip revealed.



But the Heart head coach will not solely be looking to Colosimo for leadership - the Melbourne squad is littered with experience that will be invaluable for the players at the club.

“Each member of the leadership group will play a crucial role in the continued development of our football Club and assist in the learning process we are all undertaking.

“Josip [Skoko] and John [Aloisi] will be able to provide the steadying hand only experience can bring, Matt [Thompson] proved last season how influential he can be in a leadership role".