FOOTBALL Federation Australia is confident of lifting some of the pessimism surrounding the A-League by handing back control of Brisbane Roar to an owners' consortium before the season kicks off in October.

The FFA took over the running of the club on the eve of last season's grand final in March, but fortunately for the cash-strapped national body, the responsibility is likely to be short-lived. A consortium of business interests from Sydney, Brisbane and overseas is in advanced stages of buying the club and, depending on the extent of their generosity, the champions may yet head into the defence of their domestic title and next year's Asian Champions League campaign with a coveted international marquee player. Roar coach Ange Postecoglou, who has lost last season's leading scorers Jean Carlos Solorzano and Kosta Barbarouses, is hoping that's the case.

Hope ... Postecoglou. Credit:Getty Images

FFA spokesman Kyle Patterson last night confirmed talks with the prospective buyers were promising.

''A new ownership structure should be in place by the start of the season. Talks are progressing well,'' he said.