Adelaide United will revert back to a two-man forward structure with marquee player Paul Agostino proving his fitness ahead of the team’s game against Wellington Phoenix at Hindmarsh Stadium on Saturday.
Agostino, who struggled with a corked muscle above his knee after playing 69 minutes in Round 1, will restart his attacking partnership with recruit Cristiano.
United coach Aurelio Vidmar said the 33-year-old would hopefully play a big role in the team but added his inclusion presented some balance issues for the line-up.
“It worked OK against Perth although we did leave some holes in the back end. We wanted to tighten that up because of Queensland’s mobility (the week after) and we did that but also on the flipside of that we didn’t have enough numbers getting forward,” Vidmar said.
“To play two up front Ago will have to be fit and playing an important role.”
“He was probably ready last week but we were a little bit precautionary with him but he’s trained all this week so he’s ready to go.”
Defender Sasa Ognenovski missed most of the Reds training session on Wednesday with the flu, but is expected to play.
Meanwhile Brazilian duo Cassio and Diego, who were included in the club’s Asian Champions League quarter finals squad, will be given another two weekends off before they’ll be considered for selection. They’ll miss the Wellington Phoenix game while the entire A-League is put on ice the following weekend for the FIFA match day break.
Diego has overcome a hamstring strain and has already completed several sessions with the group.
“Protocol is once you come back from injury you’ve got to complete the whole week but that doesn’t necessarily mean you are going to be in line for the game,” Vidmar said.
“I think he was a bit sore from yesterday’s training so he’ll probably miss out this week.”
It’s hoped Cassio will put his torn calf muscle behind him in time to join the group the following week.
Despite his recent injury setbacks, last year’s club champion remains hot property in the football world. Vidmar said he was keen for him to remain at Hindmarsh.
“In my opinion he’s got to stay, that’s what I’ve told Michael Petrillo (Adelaide United Football Director). He’s a fantastic professional, fantastic footballer and he’s extremely good within the group and a good natured person,” he said.
“I also understand he’s a footballer who wants to the best for him and his family.”
The Reds will go into their clash against the Phoenix after taking four points from their opening two games. Vidmar said the New Zealand team should not be underestimated.
“Shane Smeltz is probably one of the best strikers in the A-League in my opinion so certainly they are very dangerous. The got beaten 4-2 but they created many, many, many chances,” he said.
