A number of A league clubs were disadvantaged during the actual season this year with the Ausis having an extended period away with under 20 qualification.
Oh for sure. I think 17 of that Aussie U20 squad earlier this year were ALM players. Maybe Adelaide had the biggest with 4?? With say 2 of those regular ALM players?? Aussie age group teams are picked from 11 A League clubs.
But it's different with the Nix. You have NZ teams selected from now 2 (previously 1) NZ ALM club. Of course you are going to lose more players to international football compared to Aussie club.
Nix had LKH, Sheridan, Sutton, Conchie, OVH & Hughes all at the Olympics last year. Surman also there whilst still technically a Nixer
You have all them rocking up days before an Australia Cup tie, it's definitely a negative. And really there is fudge all you can do about it.
I don't think when signing new players, targeting those who are most likely to be able to arrive early for an Australia Cup tie, should be a huge factor. If you have to wait a bit to get the ideal player for a season that starts in late October, you wait.
Sounds like Nix pre season is going to start bit earlier this year on 1st July. Last year was OFC Nations Cup and Olympics in the midst of pre season. This year just the U20 WC.
Getting together earlier. Less disruptions. Italiano a season older & wiser. Lets see what happens.