Adelaide United boss Josep Gombau says he is unconcerned with his side’s opponent in next week’s elimination final following a 4-1 thumping of Melbourne City FC.
There is a possibility the same two teams will lock horns in week one of the finals series, with United set to finish fourth if Wellington Phoenix defeat Sydney FC today.
But a Sky Blues triumph would see Adelaide leapfrog Wellington into third position and set up a stoush with Brisbane Roar, who have had the Reds’ measure recently.
WRAP: Adelaide United 4 Melbourne City FC 1
“For me I want to finish third because in the end it’s better to finish third than fourth.
“In the finals if you want to be the champion, you need to win every single game.
“It doesn’t matter if you play against Melbourne City or Brisbane – both teams will be difficult.”
Adelaide will be without defender Michael Marrone, who was red-carded in the 70th minute for his sliding challenge on Erik Paartalu.
Marrone, who missed last year’s finals series after sustaining a nasty broken leg – against the same opponent – will miss this weekend’s elimination final, unfairly according to Gombau.
“For me it’s not a red card,” he said. “When the game was finished I spoke with the referee as I normally do and I asked why.
“It’s sad for Micky because he’s a player who never puts (creates) any trouble, he is very honest and never makes big tackles.
“Last year he missed this game with a big injury, now this year he cannot play.”
