Marc Fox runs the rule over this season's Queensland Roar squad, their chances and where they're likely to finish.

Major departures ...

Sasa Ognenovski (Adelaide United), Simon Lynch (Airdrie United, Scotland), Marcinho (released), Ante Milicic (Shahzan Muda FC, Malaysia)

Major arrivals ...

Tim Smits (Rochedale Rovers), David Dodd (Palm Beach), Sergio van Dijk (FC Emmen, Holland), Charlie Miller (Lierse SK, Belgium)

At a glance ...

They took their time but Queensland's methodical recruitment strategy seems to have reaped rewards. Adding Dutchman Sergio van Dijk and Charlie Miller has strengthened the attacking third but some doubts remain over an aging back four after the loss of Sasa Ognenovski to Adelaide United.

Key men ...

Former neighbours in Glasgow, skipper Craig Moore and close friend Charlie Miller both broke into the ranks of Scottish giants Rangers as teenagers and their thirst for silverware hasn't diminished despite swapping Ibrox for Suncorp. Moore improved as last season progressed and now looks right at home in the A-League. Meanwhile Miller, who briefly represented Scotland in his heyday, should add much-needed composure going forward.

Young guns ...

After last season's whirlwind induction to professional football, a Roar side without Michael Zullo and Robbie Kruse would have been unthinkable. But with question marks over Kruse's work rate when playing out wide and a shift in formation from Frank Farina, neither is guaranteed a first team place. Look out for teenage central defender Luke DeVere - a star in the making according to Farina - who could snap up a berth alongside Moore in the heart of the defence.