The Serve

C’mon Football Federation find the cash for John Aloisi

What is it about Sydney FC? When news of negotiations between Socceroo’s star John Aloisi and Queensland Roar were bubbling, the excitement seemed to stem from the ambition more than the possibility. Now that FC is apparently ready to pounce, it seems like a marriage that could work. A bona fide star playing in a playground made for stars.It’s just too perfect.

There is a stumbling block. The Football Federation. They don’t want to help Sydney, or anyone it seems, bring Aloisi home. No money for you.

Hang on.

Wasn’t there supposed to be a fund? A ‘fighting fund’, I believe was the exact term. Yes, when the A-League was set up, John O’Neill spoke glowingly about the need to bring home our stars, when they are still playing star quality football. Never happened before, but we believed it.

We believed it because it came from John O’Neill.

In the short history of this brave new world, we’ve had Dwight Yorke. Yes, a terrific draw and he won Sydney a grand final. Pure class, but it was always going to be a flirtation rather than a foundation. Romario turned up, played four games and made a cool quarter million. For what? Frequent images of his rather attractive volleyball girlfriend and less frequent clever touches? Please. Sydney wants to sign Philip Cocu. Great. But is that going to solidify the league?

John Aloisi. The penalty against Uruguay. The goal against Japan. His very image warms the heart. He’s only 31. Confident. Gregarious. Talented. Australian. Isn’t this exactly what the fund was for?

The Federation can’t play favourites but they can look after their competition. They know they need Sydney to pull in crowds if the league is to survive, let alone prosper.

Aloisi in an FC jersey.

Think of the possibilities.