Socceroos legend John Aloisi has endorsed Canberra's bid for an A-League licence, saying it would help rejuvenate the national competition if successful.
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Aloisi scored the winning penalty that sent the Socceroos to the 2006 World Cup, kick starting the glory years of Australian football.
The A-League catapulted off the back of that and expanded to Western Sydney, but Aloisi says it's gone stale in recent years.
Low ratings saw Foxtel revise its broadcast deal with Football Federation Australia earlier this year, with the network to deliver just one more A-League season at almost half the price.
Ex-Brisbane Roar coach Aloisi says the addition of a Canberra-based team could help spark new interest in the competition, urging the FFA to grant Capital Region FC a licence.
I hope Canberra gets a team, it's a no brainer really for the capital.
- Socceroos legend John Aloisi
The European-backed group tabled a multi-million dollar offer to the FFA last month, to either acquire the available Central Coast licence or that of another expansion team.
"I think it would be really good for the A-League if Canberra gets a side. We're at a bit of a crossroads at the moment, we're a bit stale with the A-League," Aloisi said.
"Any new team that comes in will add to it and hopefully Canberra do get the licence."
In a major boost to Canberra's bid, Capital Region FC announced on Friday it had appointed Craig Moore to the prospective team's football department.
The former Socceroo would work in tandem with head of football Ron Smith, with the pair responsible for overseeing coaching appointments, player development and elite pathways.
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Aloisi, who is commentating on the English Premier League for Optus this season, says the region has a lot to offer the A-League under their guidance.
"I hope Canberra gets a team, it's a no brainer really for the capital," Aloisi said.
"Canberra has always produced good players and so, you want them to have a team. I know it's a well supported area of football and it's easier, I think, to get government funding with Parliament there.
"The FFA should give the licence to the team in Canberra. I know Ron Smith is involved, all football knowledge he has and what's he's done for Australia has been amazing really. All the players he's been able to help and develop to become top professionals.
"I read this morning about Moore getting involved, which is great news for not only him but for Canberra and Australian football. He's got so much knowledge and connections, as well as playing at the highest level."
Local junior George Timotheou is being lined up as a potential first signing for Canberra's prospective A-League team, having parted ways with Zulte Waregem last month.
He's keen to sign with an A-League team and play next season, before turning his eye to a possible Canberra return. If Capital Region's bid is successful, it's expected they'll be ready to take the field from the 2021.
"Hopefully a club picks him up and he can share what he's capable of doing," Aloisi said.