8. PERTH GLORY

We sat on this article for as long as we could hoping that Perth were going to announce some higher profile imports and we hope for their sake that the rather youthful NWSL campaigners they've brought in over the past few days surprise us all.

But the fact remains that if you're only announcing the brunt of your imports four days out from the beginning of the season, how long are they really going to have to gel with the team?

You could sign amazing talent - which, whether Perth have managed, is somewhat debateable - but bringing them in at the very last minute isn't exactly top-notch transfer dealing.

Now, this is obviously punctuated by the fact that Perth were sweating on Sam Kerr for a long time. A very tough situation that no matter how inevitable it seemed to us, was obviously a priority for Perth.

But unfortunately, it doesn't make it any easier for Perth's fans this season, who will be hoping that last season's Grand Finalists don't fall apart. They certainly shouldn't: Perth had huge experience and talent in their squad and have consistently throughout the W-League.

But it hasn't been an inspiring offseason for Perth by any measure. Rather than expanding on their success last season with or without Kerr, they've largely disappeared from the conversation.

Part of the problem is their lack of ability to make up for Kerr's goals throughout the park. Bringing in a 10 goal a season striker isn't easy, but it was clearly what was needed most.

Crystal Thomas is their new imported striker, but she only managed three goals for Washington Spirit last season.

"Crystal is a forward who will really suit whichever system we play," said Bobby Despotovski.

"She can operate as a target and hold the ball up, or play off the shoulder and get in behind and is the kind of player who can help educate the younger players that we have in our squad this season."

The backline will be much tougher to beat and we're expecting big things from Arianna Romero and Kim Carroll, but we can't help but feel a little underwhelmed from the W-League giants.

Here's hoping we're rushing to judge, because otherwise we're looking at an underwhelming campaign from one of the league's most exciting clubs.