Talay, after all, was No.2 at Sydney FC when they marched to last year's A-League championship in what was Corica's first year in charge of a team.

But there has been radio silence between the pair this week ahead of their first clash at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday evening.

"I texted him before and he texted me before the Western United game that they played, wishing him all the best for the season," Corica said.

"But this week there's been no contact.

"Obviously we're good friends but when it comes down to when we play against each other, it's full focus on your own team and getting the job done."

One of Talay's main roles last season involved the set piece, where the Sky Blues scored half the goals in their famous 6-1 of Melbourne Victory in the semi-finals.

However Corica said becoming the No.1 presents a different challenge.

That's why, in terms of style, he expects Talay will attempt to replicate Sydney FC's game plan across the Tasman.

"Set pieces, he did a lot of the work on that. He was very good," Corica said.

"As a head coach, it's a different story but he's well-equipped for that. He knows what he wants, he's very passionate about the system he wants to play.

"He wants to play football, play out from the back, build through, and obviously score goals and win games.

"First time in the A-League last year, he would've taken a lot from what we did last year and put it into his way he wants to play."

The defending champions will be bolstered by the return of their international crew, headed by Socceroos goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne and Rhyan Grant.

It will also be the first home game for new faces Alex Baumjohann, Ryan McGowan, Kosta Barbarouses and Luke Brattan.

Phoenix will be without mid-week signing and former Celtic striker Gary Hooper, who is likely to debut next week.

STATS THAT MATTER

* There has been an average of four goals scored between Sydney FC and Wellington in the last five A-League games hosted by the Sky Blues.

* Wellington are aiming to avoid losing a fourth-straight game for the first time since March-October 2016.

* Sydney FC's eight shots on target in their season-opener was more than anyone.

Australian Associated Press