Melbourne Victory FC coach Kevin Muscat has revealed that Gui Finkler and Nick Ansell are likely to make a return to his sides starting line-up against Brisbane Roar tomorrow night at AAMI Park.
After impressing in recent weeks, Finkler looks set to take his place in the starting XI for the first time this season, in place of 20 year-old Connor Pain.
“He’s [Finkler] trained all week and we’re comfortable in the way he’s travelled, so it’s more than likely he’ll get an opportunity tomorrow night as well,” Muscat said.
“I’ve maintained throughout this whole campaign with Gui and he’s been tremendous in the role he’s had to play.”
Ansell will replace marquee Pablo Contreras who was unable to recover from an injury he sustained in last weeks 1-1 draw against Western Sydney Wanderers.
“Pablo’s obviously come off last week and it’s a shame because he’s started to find some form, he’s started to settle in.
“Nick Ansell will come in and Nick’s proven in recent games that when he’s been given the opportunity he hasn’t let anybody down.”
Archie Thompson who has been absent for the last month will also be unavailable for tomorrow nights fixture, still recovering from a hamstring injury.
“He’s close again, he’s been close for a while but we’re a bit cautious with him and ruled him out for tomorrow night’s game early in the week to make sure he’s 100% for the following week.”
Muscat was however reluctant to comment on the situation involving Football Federation Australia’s sanctions on the club, preferring to discuss tomorrow nights contest against the ladder leaders.
“What I will say is that the football club certainly doesn’t condone any antisocial behaviour, but from my perspective I hope you respect if the football club feels the need to release a statement, they will in due course,” He said.
“The one thing I can control at the moment is preparing for tomorrow night.
“Brisbane has been on a very good run and it’s important that we bridge that gap tomorrow night if we’ve got any aspirations of winning the league.”
Melbourne Victory host Brisbane Roar in a top-of-the-table clash at AAMI Park on Saturday. Kick-off is scheduled for 7.45pm.