THERE is little doubt new striker Cristiano from Brazil will be the name on most Adelaide United supporters' lips as they file into Hindmarsh Stadium today to watch the Reds battle Perth Glory.

But of equal interest to Adelaide's coaching staff will be the fortunes of recently signed midfield playmaker Paul Reid, who is set to claim the central creator's role so expertly filled by Diego during the Asian Champions League this year.

Sydney-born Reid, 29, was a late addition to United's squad a fortnight ago when he signed from English League One side Brighton and Hove Albion - reportedly from under the noses of the Glory.

In a team that looks well served in defence, attack and on the flanks, Reid's ability to feed balls through the middle will be vital to link-up play, given that hard-tackling midfielder Jonas Salley is far from the greatest distributor.

One factor in Reid's favour is the increasingly popular view that the A-League's high tempo is close in nature to that of the English football he most recently played, whereas the ACL's more deliberate passing patterns conjure comparisons with mainland Europe.

Reds coach Aurelio Vidmar could not overstate the importance of Reid to the midfield mix while Diego recuperates from a hamstring strain.

"I know Diego is really crucial for us in terms of how we want to play, especially coming out from the back through the midfield. He'll be missed but Reidy's a really superb passer of the ball anyway and very experienced," Vidmar said.

"He's always looking forward, always one step ahead. He's another one who hasn't had much game time either over the past couple of months so we just have to assess how he goes as well.

"But he's a very good professional and does everything asked of him and more, so it won't be a problem - he's a fighter and that's going to be extremely important."

Another debutant keen to impress is left-back Scott Jamieson. He is one of four players making their first senior start for United (the other is right-back Alemao).

Always on the fringes of the Bolton squad in the English Premier League, Jamieson gets a chance first-up due to a leg strain to first-choice Cassio.

Vidmar said Jamieson would add some welcome mongrel to the United back four.

"He gives us a bit of bite because he's a nasty little bugger," the coach said.