Pierre Littbarski
Carney trialled for newly formed A-League side Sydney FC in March 2005 and was signed to a one-year deal after impressing coach Pierre Littbarski. He was an immediate success at the club, scoring twice at the Club World Championship Australian Qualifying Tournament, including the only goal of the final, and again at the Oceania Club Championship to help ensure the club's qualification for the Club World Championship. On 16 December 2005, Carney scored the winning goal against African champions El Ahly to secure Sydney FC 5th place at the tournament.