In the weeks since the Englishman landed in Australia, Aldred has done nothing but convince the ex-Liverpool striker he'd made the right choice.

On Tuesday, Aldred was officially announced as the Roar's sixth club captain but Fowler admitted he'd made the decision several weeks back.

"Deep down I knew a long time ago," Fowler said.

"None of the boys knew what I was thinking.

"I gave the impression it was a role that was up for grabs but look I didn't want to come out and say straight away because I wanted to give everyone the opportunity of seeing where they were in and around the dressing room.

"I've always had an idea Tom was the right man for it. I've been massively impressed so far."

Aldred, who was a fans' favourite at Scottish Premiership team Motherwell before arriving in Australia in June, has already led the Roar in their two FFA Cup fixtures during the A-League pre-season.

The centre-back captained Blackpool to promotion via the League One playoffs in 2017 and said taking over the armband from retired club legend Matt McKay is a responsibility he's only too happy to accept.

"It's part of my attributes to be a leader," Aldred said.

"From the position I play, it's all about organisation and as I've got slightly older that's gone slightly off the pitch as well to help people, to organise and to just help your teammates achieve success and win football matches.

"Ultimately, that's what it's all about. I don't feel additional pressure.

"It's something I enjoy and it comes naturally to me so nothing much will change regardless of the armband or not."

Veteran Irish striker Roy O'Donovan has been named as vice-captain.

The ex-Central Coast and Newcastle marksman said he'll use his role to support Fowler and Aldred as the Roar aim to bounce back from a horror 2018-19 season.

Aldred will lead Fowler's new-look Roar when they kick off their A-League campaign away to last year's premiers plate winners Perth Glory on October 13.

Australian Associated Press