The festive period is fast approaching for the Hyundai A-League adding huge importance for every club as the season reaches a pivotal stage.
With a host of side vying to secure their spot in the top six, every point is crucial ahead of this weekend’s action.
And there’s a number of key players returning for their clubs in Round 11.
We’ve picked out four stars who could make a big impact for their respective sides this weekend.
Thomas Kristensen (Brisbane Roar)
The Great Dane is back!
Kristensen has been named to make his first appearance of the campaign and will add some steel and experience to Roar’s midfield.
Oriol Riera (Western Sydney Wanderers)
The Spanish striker missed the Derby drubbing with a hamstring strain but is set to return against the Mariners in a game the Wanderers simply need to win.
With four goals for the season so far, Josep Gombau certainly needs a player of his quality in the front third as the Wanderers chase their first win since round 1.
Milos Ninkovic (Sydney FC)
What a luxury for Sky Blues boss Graham Arnold to be able to bring a Johnny Warren medallist back into a side that won the Derby 5-0 last weekend.
Ninkovic has missed the last three games with a calf problem but looks set to return for the top-of-the-table clash v Melbourne City at Allianz.
Asdrubal (Central Coast Mariners)
Like the Wanderers, Central Coast also welcome back a Spanish striker for the Saturday night clash in Gosford.
Asdrubal has missed the last few games for Paul Okon’s side and he’ll add a different dimension to the Mariners attack.
