Melbourne Victory coach Kevin Muscat is convinced impressive new striker Mitch Austin will recover in time for Wednesday’s Westfield FFA Cup tie against Newcastle Jets, despite coming off early against Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
Victory beat Atletico Madrid in Geelong
Austin clattered into Emiliano Velasquez in the opening minute of Victory’s 1-0 friendly win over the La Liga powerhouse in Geelong and eventually succumbed to the knock midway through the first half.
The former Central Coast Mariners winger remained prone on the pitch after the early collision, sparking fears he had suffered a serious injury.
But speaking after the game, Muscat was unfazed.
“He’s [Austin] fine,” he said.
“It was a direct knock, knee to knee, so there was no point taking any risks with him.”
Victory’s competitive fixtures start this week with Muscat’s men heading north to play Newcastle Jets in the FFA Cup on Wednesday night at Magic Park.
Despite having just two days off before the away fixture, Muscat insisted Austin will be ready for selection against the Jets as Victory look to defend the FFA Cup.
“[The medical staff have] had a chance to have a look at him… and I’d be very surprised if he’s not available,” Muscat said.
“He’ll look after himself. We’ve still got the best part of three days.”
