Time to get pumped up

RATHER than sit back after a season well done, the Wellington Phoenix hierarchy need to be planning next season's A-League challenge.

The Phoenix need to get inside Sydney and Melbourne's top-two bubble.

The re-signing of Socceroos defender Jon McKain shows they're tying down critical players for the future.

McKain was a vital cog this year but he's only one piece of a much bigger puzzle.

Truth be told, they have work to do if they are going to break the Sydney-Melbourne stranglehold.

They failed to beat either during the season.

There are a couple of areas I think the Phoenix need to specifically target.

Sydney and Melbourne have had outstanding midfield playmakers who get on the ball and create chances. The retiring Steve Corica and Carlos Hernandez have conducted their teams' domination for a number of years.

Who do the Phoenix have?

Brazilian Diego was signed for just that reason but hasn't found his feet.

All White Tim Brown was then moved into the role more by default, and, while he's scored some crucial goals this season, isn't a true playmaker.

The answer is in the transfer market. Britain and Europe have been mentioned by CEO Tony Pignata as areas to be explored so let's hope another Ifill or Greenacre can be found and signed.

The fullbacks also need reinforcement. Tony Lochhead needs some genuine competition for his left side berth and only then will he be forced to produce his best every week.

On the other side, Troy Hearfield has done an admirable job in recent weeks but was found wanting when it mattered most against Sydney.

He is not a natural fullback and is probably better suited to a more attacking role.

If Phoenix finances are pumped into these areas, Sydney and Melbourne will have legitimate competition next season.

Danny Hay is a former All White

- © Fairfax NZ News