Tour 2015 - Sydney match previews
Ryan Mason has tapped into some inside knowledge of Sydney FC from a former team-mate - and expects a test in the AIA Cup at the ANZ Stadium on Saturday (8pm local time, 11am UK).
Ryan played alongside Massimo Luongo for our Under-21s before a season together when Ryan was on loan at Swindon Town in 2013-14 and our former Academy graduate and Australian international - who joined QPR last week - has given his fellow midfielder the rundown on the A-League side.
"Everyone knows that Del Piero came over here to play and that was a big thing for Australian football," said Ryan, who enjoyed an outstanding breakthrough campaign for us last season.
"I've also a good mate in Massimo Luongo who I played with for a number of years, so we know the standard is good and I'm sure it will be a real test for us."
Mauricio Pochettino also expected a test from a Sydney team that finished second in the A-League and then runners-up in the Grand Final.
"It's been a long season but this is a great experience for us, a great opportunity to enjoy a game and we're all looking forward to it," he said.
Meanwhile, Sydney FC are determined to put on a show. “It’s our obligation to give our best performance,” said coach Graham Arnold. “We’re representing Australia, we’re representing the A-League, Tottenham are doing the same and every time I send a team on the field it’s about winning, we don’t go out to lose.
“I grew up watching Tottenham play, it’s a wonderful opportunity for us on Saturday night to test ourselves against an English Premier League team.
“It’s a great opportunity to showcase the A-League worldwide and I’m very excited by the occasion."