Adelaide United's Ang Costanzo hasn't given up returning to the Reds' leadership group despite losing the captaincy earlier this year.

The experienced midfielder was Adelaide's caretaker skipper during the Asian Champions League but was overlooked for not only the top job but the leadership group as well when the club reviewed its squad during the off-season.

The 31-year-old was replaced by defender Michael Valkanis who is returning to the side after serving a suspension handed out at last season's Hyundai A-League Grand Final.

Costanzo said Valkanis was a good choice as captain but admitted feeling disappointed about the decision.

"That was probably the most disappointing thing, not being in the leadership group," he said.

"Hopefully I can build on a few things and work on things I have to work on to get back in there."

The pony-tailed Red wasn't willing to reveal what coach Aurelio Vidmar had asked him to work on.

But Costanzo said he would still be offering advice to the side's younger players despite his demotion.

"Every time you go out on the field you feel like you can help the team, once you are out there we are all leaders," he said.

Leadership disappointments aside, Costanzo said he was looking forward to the 2007/08 season.

He said he was enjoying the club's new fitness program and the company of his new team-mates.

"From the first day the older guys could sense the enthusiasm, the younger guys make you feel a lot more refreshed, the players have been brought in have been fantastic," he said.

Sportal