Former French international William Gallas has turned to the internet in a bid to boost his preparations for his A-League debut on Saturday.
Gallas starred for Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham during his 12-year stint in England, but has been confronted with a whole new set of challenges since touching down in Australia last weekend.
The 36-year-old has taken Perth’s stifling heat and annoying flies in his stride, saying the blue skies have made it worthwhile.
And he’s already comfortable with Perth Glory’s game plan.
But getting to know the names of his new teammates has been a tricker task.
“Every night I go on the website and I look up all the players. And then in the morning, I try to say hello,” Gallas said after training on Wednesday.
“It’s not easy because there are 23 players.
“I already know the names of my defence line.
“They asked me what is my nickname. I said I would like them to call me Will.
“Normally in England they call me Billy, but I don’t like it. I’m sorry. I prefer they call me Will.”
Gallas completed match simulation training with Glory on Wednesday, and hopes to play a starting role in Saturday’s clash with Adelaide in Perth.
With a 32-degree day forecast for the match, Perth unsuccessfully tried to get the game moved from 2.30pm to 6.45pm local time.
Gallas has experienced a string of 30-plus degree days already, and says he’ll need to closely monitor himself during the game.
“It’s not easy because I come from London. It’s very cold there at the moment. I spoke to my friend there and he said it’s only six degrees,” said Gallas, who hasn’t played a competitive game since April 4.
“I think we have to drink a lot before the game and during the game, because it’s difficult to play with the heat.
“It won’t be easy for all the players.”
Fourth-placed Glory will be missing star striker Shane Smeltz (international duty), but Danny De Silva could return from an ankle injury.
Adelaide haven’t tasted victory since beating Perth 3-0 in the season opener.
Brick Tamlin of the Pants Party
Guest
Well they'll have to,someone on Glory's facebook page pointed to a game in the NSL against Marconi when 3 players were hospitalised after a game with similar temps but this was back before there were floodlights at the ground and there was no choice.
Franko
Guest
They going to do that thing where the break for 2-3 mins half way through each half for water? Glory should get on board and sell purple water pistols or something at the game.
Brick Tamlin of the Pants Party
Guest
35 degrees forecast for tomorrow,the FFA has had a week since Glory's intial request to change the kick off time and nothing has been done once again showing absolutely no regard for player or fan welfare.Remember "YOU POWER THE GAME" if you can muster any energy from the sun stroke.There probably won't even be 10k there Saturday.
Franko
Guest
Hey, if Perth is good enough for Gabriel Batistuta, it's good enough for Gallas. Enjoy the flies Billy ;)
Punter
Guest
Good luck Will, hope you enjoy your time in the A-League & tell your friends back home.