With the captain’s armband now firmly strapped on, Mariners defender Alex Wilkinson is ready to lead the new look Mariners into battle against newcomers the Wellington Phoenix this Saturday at Bluetongue Central Coast Stadium.

Not even Wilkinson knows exactly what to expect from the Hyundai A-League’s newest franchise, but the budding Socceroo does know that the Phoenix won’t be an easy feat – boasting a strong line-up with an international flavour.

"I think it’s going to be a tough game, Wellington have got a lot to prove this year" said Wilkinson.

"They have Wayne O’Sullivan, who was with us last year over there as assistant coach, they are a completely new outfit."

The 22-year-old is very excited about the Mariners being able to put the injury woes of last year behind them, as he leads a fully fit and strong squad through the Bluetongue Central Coast Stadium tunnel on Saturday.

"It’s looking really good, this is probably the best we have looked," said Wilkinson.

"The past two seasons that I have been there have been disastrous in terms of injury, having only around 12 players fully fit going into pre-season, so this season is looking a lot better."

As the Mariners youngest captain ever, Wilkinson is looking forward to the personal challenge the new role will bring, as well as learning along the way from his counterparts in what is a very strong and experienced back line.

"With Tony Vidmar and Andrew Clark back there and with a lot of experience behind them, it certainly helps me out a lot," said Wilkinson.

"Hopefully we can all stay injury free and play a big part this season."

Mariners Football Manager Lawrie McKinna is hoping for a big season from his captain, knowing that a good performance from the former youth international will no doubt lead to an opportunity to prove himself on the world stage.

"I would think that this is Wilkinson’s year to step up, he’s captain, he’s getting more mature," said McKinna.

"He’s only 22, I think this is a big year for Alex, and I’m sure if he is as consistent as he has been over the last two years then he will be knocking on the door of the Socceroos and that’s where he deserves to be."

The Mariners open their 2007 Pre-Season Cup campaign at Bluetongue Central Coast Stadium this Saturday, 14 July, against Hyundai A-League newcomers the Wellington Phoenix. Kick off is at 6pm, gates open at 5pm. Admission is free of charge, with all spectators encouraged to donate to local charity Give Me 5 For Kids at the gate.

Mariners Memberships for the Hyundai A-League 2007/08 season are now available for purchase online at http://www.ccmariners.com.au, or from Rebel Sports outlets at Erina and Tuggerah.