Goal's Top 20 A-League players: No.2 - Diego Castro

Goal counts down the top 20 players currently playing in the A-League, as voted by its Australian journalists

2. DIEGO CASTRO | Perth Glory

Age: 35
Nationality: Spanish
Position: Attacking midfielder
A-League apps: 53 (Perth Glory)
A-League goals: 25 (Perth Glory)
Other clubs: Pontevedra, Malaga, Sporting Gijon, Getafe (all Spain)
Achievements: Johnny Warren Medal (Perth 2015-16)

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Castro spent seven consecutive seasons in Spain's La Liga before he joined the A-League and his class was evident on first sight.

He is almost the complete attacker - with the ability to bamboozle opponents with dribbling, hit a quality pass and clinically finish.

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The fact he scores a goal every two games for the Glory in his deeper attacking position is testament to this.

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"It’s a great honour to be regarded as one of the best players in the A-League because the standard in the league is very good and improving," Castro told Goal.

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"It is known much better around the world now and there are some very good international and Australian players playing in it."

2017-18 PROSPECTS

Even though he has just turned 35, Castro's abilities should still be strong as his game doesn't rely on pace, but more quick thinking and intelligence.

The Glory will be hoping the dynamics between Castro and fellow attackers Andy Keogh and Adam Taggart are stronger in their second season together.

There is no doubt the Spaniard's output over the campaign will strongly impact the success Perth can achieve.

"We are all looking forward to the season starting and preparations have been good so far. Kenny (Lowe) has made the squad stronger by bringing in a number of new players and I'm looking forward to playing with them," Castro told Goal.

"I know Xavi Torres and Andreu because I played with them in Spain and I’m sure they will play well for us. The same goes for Mitch Nichols and Scott Neville who I have played against in the past. Jake Brimmer is also a young player with a bright future.

"Like all the teams, we need to have some luck with injuries, but if we do, I am confident we can have a very successful season."

Goal A-League 20:

No.3 - Besart Berisha (Melb Victory)

No.4 - Mark Milligan (Melb Victory)

No.5 - Alex Wilkinson (Sydney FC)

No.6 - James Troisi (Melb Victory)

No.7 - Bruno Fornaroli (Melb City)

No.8 - Rhyan Grant (Sydney FC)

No.9 - Eugene Galekovic (Melb City)

No.10 - Andy Keogh (Perth Glory)

No.11 - Alex Brosque (Sydney FC)

No.12 - Bobo (Sydney FC)