Western Sydney X-factor Youssouf Hersi has recovered from a foot injury and is a chance to return for Friday night’s top-of-the-table clash against Brisbane Roar.
Western Sydney X-factor Youssouf Hersi has recovered from a foot injury and is a chance to return for Friday night’s top-of-the-table clash against Brisbane Roar, coach Tony Popovic has revealed.
Hersi has missed the Wanderers’ last three games after injuring his foot against Sydney FC last month.
But the livewire winger is eyeing a return after resuming full training this week.
“He’s back training, he looks very happy and determined and his foot’s improved,” Popovic said on Tuesday.
“Now we just have to assess how he trains this week and how his body is and whether he’ll be available for selection.”
While the Wanderers have won all three of their games without Hersi, Popovic is excited at the prospect of having the 31-year-old back on deck.
“Of course it would be a great boost (to have him back),” he said.
“He’s a very good player, it’s nice to have him out on the training field and I’m sure the boys like having him out there.
“He’s a great character and it’s good to see him happy again and over this injury.”
Popovic has a full squad to choose from for the trip to Brisbane, with the exception of Tomi Juric who is still three weeks away from a return with a knee injury.
The undefeated Wanderers sit two points clear of the Roar on top of the ladder after six rounds, but Popovic remains wary of this week’s opponents despite their 2-1 loss to Newcastle on Sunday.
“We’re expecting a really, really tough game,” he said.
“They’re playing very well, they’ve got some outstanding players in their side and it will be what we expect – a real tough encounter.
“We just want to put in a very good performance and we know if we do that we give ourselves a chance and that’s what we try and do every week.
“We’ve got a lot of respect for the way Brisbane plays and the players they’ve got and we know they’ll be very strong come Friday night.”
