Scott Jamieson believes youngster Braedyn Crowley could be Melbourne City’s x-factor in Saturday’s pre-Christmas Derby against Victory at AAMI Park.
With City facing a striker shortage with leading scorer Ross McCormack joining Bruno Fornaroli on the injured list.
It’s left City boss with a selection headache for the Derby as he looks to find the right option to lead the attack against Victory.
And Jamieson believes 21-year-old Crowley, who has made three appearances as a sub this season could be the man to job a job against Rhys Williams, Thomas Deng and Co.
“Braedyn is one of those players I don’t like to play against but I would like to have on my team,” Jamieson said.
“He’s a player who can score a goal and he’s one, if I had an opportunity to pick a team, I would pick him, because with his record in the youth team, the way he trains, he has no fear.
“He’s definitely an option we can use up front, especially with youngsters coming through our club.”
It promises to be a festive atmosphere at AAMI Park on Saturday night as both team’s look for the perfect Christmas present against their fierce neighbours.
While City fell to a hard-fought 3-1 loss to Sydney FC last weekend, Victory jumped back into the top six courtesy of a vital win in Brisbane on Sunday.
“I think it’s going to be exciting because it’s going to be at AAMI Park, it’s two teams going for territory and points,” Jamieson said.
“This is the one we want to build up, make sure it’s a big crowd, two very well behaved [sets of fans] and 22 very good players on the field.
“With the results of the teams so far, I think it is teed up nicely for a special Christmas Derby.
“Our results have been good, not amazing, but good and I think with our performances we have improved in different areas,” the left-back added.
“It’s also been about that upward trajectory in terms of improving and getting better. We go into this game full of confidence.”
City prevailed in the previous clash between the two this season back in Round 2, winning 2-1 thanks to goals from Marcin Budzinski and Bruce Kamau.
