Brazilian Washington Brandao (pic) has no illusions about being a Golden Boot contender for the 2020 M-League season.

But a few more goals than last year will be wonderful for the Petaling Jaya (PJ) City striker.The lanky 29-year-old joined PJ in last season’s second transfer window in May but could only score four goals in 12 appearances as the Phoenix finished eighth out of 12 teams in their debut season in the top flight.

Brandao said he had some problem blending in last season as he joined the side mid-season. This time, he has been with them throughout their pre-season.

To focus on the league, he has asked his family to join him next month.

“Last season there was a lot of catching up to do when I joined last year but this time we had a good pre-season… so I could really focus on working with the team and the coaches, ” said the 1.83m tall striker.

“Of course, I would like to score more goals but my main target is always to help my team win. I don’t want the pressure of setting goal targets, a player must be able to help his team in all areas on the pitch.”

The Phoenix have signed some experienced players in new skipper and midfielder K. Gurusamy, winger D. Christie Jayaseelan, defenders Mohd Amer Saidin and Mohd Syazwan Zaipol Bahari.

They have also brought in Guinean international striker Demba Camara, South Korean defender Kim Bong-jin and Philippine striker Mark Hartmann besides retaining Brandao and his compatriot defender Elizeu Araujo.

The management have set a top-five target and Brandao said that although they have a number of new players, they can create upsets.

“This time the squad have a large number of new players but I think we can do better than last season because we had a good pre-season.

“This season, the Super League will be tougher, most teams seem to have a good pre-season, everyone spent money to strengthen their squads, the competition and quality will be higher and I believe we can be a contender too.”