Samuel Gleeson blogs on the Melbourne Heart for BPL. Click here if you want to join our A-League blog network.

The introduction of the Melbourne Heart in the Hyundai A-League will provide the competition with its first real derby. The success of Melbourne Victory has prompted the FFA to bring the Heart into an already swamped Melbourne sporting market, but many believe the red and white stripes are on the right track.

The Heart has hired an experienced and well-credentialed coach in John van't Schip, who has promised fans a technical brand of football. The recruiting staff have done a terrific job in bringing van't Schip ambitions to fruition with a quality squad containing a good balance of youth and experience.

Captain Simon Colosimo was instrumental in Sydney FC's run to the premiership-championship double and is likely to be joined by current Socceroo Michael Beauchamp in the centre of defence. In goals will be another important member of Sydney FC's campaign, Clint Bolton, who produced some fine saves and conceded the least goals of any keeper in the league last season.

In midfield, Socceroo great Josip Skoko returns to the domestic competition after showcasing his talents in some of Europe's best leagues over the past 15 years.

Many will remember Skoko for his stunning strike at the MCG in the 2006 World Cup farewell match against Greece, with the Melbourne-born midfielder eager to impress the local fans again.

Through former Newcastle captain Matt Thompson, Kristian Sarkies and Dutch import Rutger Worm, the Heart have a strong and creative midfield.

Up front, former Premier League striker and man mountain Gerald Sibon is sure to prove a handful for defences, along with John Aloisi and Brazilian speedster Alex Terra.

Injuries will test the Heart's depth, but to the club's credit they have also signed talented youngsters such as Kliment Taseski, Eli Babalj and Aziz Behich for cover for if required.

With so much talent on the field, the main issues may lie away from the pitch. The new franchise has approximately 2500 members and will need wins on the board, if fans are to continue clicking through the AAMI Park turnstiles. With Melbourne Victory having already entrenched itself in Melbourne's sporting landscape, the Heart require success on the field to achieve success off it.

Expect a good showing from the new boys as they host the Central Coast Mariners in the competition opener on Thursday night, with many football fans already salivating in anticipation for October 2, the first Melbourne derby.