Soccer: Glory's Neville eyes overseas move

Scott Neville of the Glory. Photo / Getty Images

Perth defender Scott Neville is hopeful of securing a move overseas in the not-too-distant future, but says his immediate focus remains squarely on helping the Glory achieve success this A-League season.

Neville spent four weeks on trial with English Championship club Portsmouth earlier this year, with the intense training and match simulation helping him stay in prime shape for the Olyroos' Olympic qualifiers.

The 22-year-old said although he enjoyed his experience in the UK, he won't be rushed into initiating a move to an overseas club until he feels he's ready.

"Everything's cut-throat over there. Even training games are like a World Cup final," Neville said of his time at Pompey.

"It's quite physical as well, which is good.

"I'd love to move overseas at one point when the timing's right.

"But at the moment (I'm) just purely focusing on doing well for Glory and hopefully we can bring the Glory back (to another successful period)."

Big things are expected of Perth this season, with the arrivals of striker Shane Smeltz, former Manchester United midfielder Liam Miller, defender Bas van den Brink and ex-Adelaide skipper Travis Dodd fanning hopes of a top-four berth.

The Glory finished a disappointing 10th last season, but goalkeeper Danny Vukovic - another new face at the club - said the future looked bright.

"On paper, I think it's the strongest team I've been a part of in the six or seven years I've been in the A-league," said Vukovic, who spent five years at Central Coast before a stint with Wellington last season.

"But on paper doesn't mean anything. We've got to do the business on the pitch.

"I'm very confident we can do that, it's all about getting out there Sunday week (against Adelaide) and getting off to a good start.

"We've got players in every position and we've got players that can back up those players. If boys aren't performing on the pitch, there's someone there to take their spot."

Vukovic, 26, said the A-League arrivals of Socceroos pair Harry Kewell (Melbourne Victory) and Brett Emerton (Sydney FC) would boost the international prospects of other players in the league.

"To have both of them playing in the league, it gives other A-League boys a shot at Socceroos," Vukovic said.

"If you're playing well against these players, I guess (Australia coach) Holger (Osieck) will look at you and think you can also do a job for the Socceroos."

The Glory kick off their season at home to Adelaide United on October 9.

- AAP