He’s one of the longest serving players at the Club and fan favourite Henrique says there’s a great feeling among the Roar squad as the Hyundai A-League draws nearer.
Less than seven weeks remain until the Mariners venture north to Suncorp Stadium in a Round 1 blockbuster on Sunday, 21 October (4pm KO).
The current pre-season, which has been full of strong performances, is the Club’s first in its own dedicated training facility in the City of Logan, and Henrique says having a home has brought the playing group closer together.
“I’m coming to training now really happy and looking forward to it. Groups of us hang out before and after training, play ping pong or play cards and enjoy being around each other which is really positive,” Henrique said.
“It’s a great sign when you’re coming to training to work hard with a smile on your face too.
“The connection we are creating right now will set us up well for when things get a bit tougher during the season.”
Less than two months remain until his 13th Hyundai A-League campaign gets underway and the Slippery Fish says October 21 can’t come quick enough.
“It’s getting close to the start of the season and every player wants to play in competitive games – that’s why we’re all here,” he continued.
A fourth Hyundai A-League Championship is the end goal for the season ahead, but the elusive striker, who played a pivotal part in the Club’s three titles, has set his own personal targets to hit.
“I have set some goals for the season – I want to play as much as I can and I would like to score into double figures,” he continued.
“In terms of the team, we all want to win the Premiership and Championship. They are all achievable goals.”
Known across the league as one of the most dangerous attacking forces, Henrique has found the back of the net at least three times in each of the last 10 seasons.
As one of the more experienced players in the squad with 157 Hyundai A-League appearances to his name, Henrique has grasped his role as a team leader with both hands.
Only captain Matt McKay has made more Hyundai A-League appearances than the Slippery Fish, and he’s using all his experience to help develop the next generation.
“As an experienced player, I know that if I prepare myself well, I can contribute more to the team. I think if I do that right, then the younger boys will follow and it will pay off during the season,” he continued.
“The new players have settled really well. They recognise that we have a really good culture here and we treat everyone like family, and they’re fitting right into that.”
