There are three more matches to go before Christmas with some cracking match-ups to look forward to over the next couple of days.
With every point gained this time of the year even more important, having some key players available again provides a major boost.
And there’s a few key players returning for their clubs in Round 12.
We’ve picked out three stars who could make a big impact for their respective sides this weekend.
Michael McGlinchey (Wellington Phoenix)
With star playmaker Dario Vidosic leaving the club this week, the Kiwi international’s return is perfectly timed.
One of the most creative players in the Phoenix squad, McGlinchey will need to be at his scheming best to unlock the usually water-tight Sydney FC defence on Saturday.
Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory)
Big games call for big players and someone of Milligan’s experience and class is just what Kevin Muscat will want for Saturday night’s Melbourne Derby.
“Millsy” scored a cracker in his last match [before getting injured against Adelaide United] but expect him to relish the physical midfield battle against the likes of Malik, Brattan and Co at AAMI Park.
Chris Herd (Western Sydney Wanderers)
It’s probably no surprise the Wanderers started to lose a couple of games when the fringe Caltex Socceroo dropped out of the side through injury.
Back to fitness now, Herd returns for Friday night’s crucial clash with the Jets in Newcastle and will add some steel in the middle of the park alongside the impressive youngster Keanu Baccus.
