With a third of the season already completed, the competition for places in the Hyundai A-League top six continues to intensify.
Just four points separates fourth-placed Central Coast and ninth-placed Western Sydney, ensuring another thrilling round of action this weekend.
And a number of teams will be boosted with key players returning from suspension and injury in Round 10.
We’ve picked out five stars who could make a big impact for their respective sides this weekend.
Mark Milligan (Victory)
The experienced Caltex Socceroo missed last week’s win over Wellington through suspension and will slot straight back into Victory’s midfield.
The 32-year-old has been one of his side’s best this season and his leadership will be vital in a tricky clash with Adelaide.
Roy O’Donovan (Jets)
After a free-scoring start to the campaign with the Jets, O’Donovan has been missing in recent weeks due to a hamstring issue.
But the competition’s leading goal-getter is back for Newcastle’s trip to Perth and could the lead the line for Ernie Merrick’s side as they look to bounce back from last week’s loss to City.
Robbie Cornthwaite (Wanderers)
An injury-hit Wanderers missed Cornthwaite’s experience in their last-start loss to Roar and his return from suspension is a welcome boost.
The ex-Socceroo will come straight back into the heart of the Wanderers defence as they face arch-rivals Sydney FC in a blockbuster Sydney Derby.
Osama Malik (City)
City managed to grab three points against the Jets last week but Malik’s presence was certainly missed in the centre of the park.
The 27-year-old has been a consistent performer this season and will need to be at his best to stop in-form Mariners playmaker Daniel De Silva on Sunday.
Milos Ninkovic (Sydney)
The Johnny Warren Medalist has missed the last two matches for the Sky Blues, though Graham Arnold’s side haven’t missed a beat in his absence.
But the classy Serbian is in line to return this weekend and could prove the difference against Wanderers in what promises to be a tense derby.
