Japanese soccer superstar Shinji Ono is convinced Western Sydney Wanderers will be even better in their second A-League season following their incredible first campaign.
Playmaker Ono was a key member of the side that won the minor premiership and lost the grand final to Central Coast.
In their first pre-season game against another A-League team, Wanderers beat Wellington Phoenix 2-1 last week, with new striker Brendon Santalab scoring both goals.
Wanderers have held onto their key players from last season and added strikers Santalab and Socceroos pair Tom Juric and Dean Heffernan.
“We should be better than last season, but we just try to work hard,” Ono told AAP on Tuesday.
“Also we have to keep good condition for the start of the season.”
Asked why he expected the Wanderers to be better this season, Ono said “The club, coaching staff, players, everyone has become one.
“We already have a good atmosphere on the pitch and off the pitch and also we have great supporters.
“That’s why we give more than 100 per cent energy.”
Asked what the new signings were bringing to the club Ono said: “They bring another mentality and we mix them together and we will be better, a great team.”
Wanderers play three more pre-season games before starting their A-League campaign with a grand final rematch against the Mariners on October 12 in Gosford.
Benched
Guest
Drawing a long bow referring to Dean Herrernan as a 'Socceroo'. Anyway, hope we have a massive season. I know the RBB will be taking it to another level. Bring on October. Party season.
Matthew Skellett
Guest
Such a humble guy doesnt say a lot but you know he's happy and a happy marquee spells a happy team and truly a mammoth season roll on october 11 th !!!!!!!