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Italy legend Cannavaro excited about watching Perth Glory

Fabio Cannavaro, one of the biggest names in world football will be in the stands watching tonight, when Perth Glory take on Al-Ahli from the United Arab Emirates.

Cannavaro is as close to football royalty as it gets, a world cup winning captain and the only defender to win the ballon d'Or, as European footballer of the year in 2006.

The star Italian is in Perth as an ambassador for Al-Ahli, having been forced to retire from the final year of his contract with the club because of injury.

"It should be a good game and one I'm looking forward to watching," Cannavaro said.

Even without Cannavaro, Al-Ahli still has a trio of big name players.

Striker Grafite was the top goal scorer in the German Bundesliga in 2008/09 while Brazilian Jaja Coelho and Chile international Luis Jimenez are top shelf players.

The international friendly will be another important game for Perth Glory in the build-up to this seasons Hyundai A-League which kicks-off in October.

Former Socceroo Chris Coyne returns from an Achilles injury having impressed at training but midfielder Liam Miller has been ruled out with a quad strain.

Having already played Scottish giants Celtic and South African sides Platinum Stars and AmaZulu this pre-season, tonight's game will give Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson another chance to see his exciting new team in action after two months of tough training.

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