We’re almost a third of the way through the Hyundai A-League season and each squad is being tested by the effects of injuries and suspensions.
Here are five important inclusions who could make the difference this weekend.
Milos Ninkovic (Sydney FC)
The Johnny Warren Medallist scored the opening goal and was an influential figure until he was forced off in the Westfield FFA Cup Final triumph over Adelaide United.
After missing the straightforward win over Brisbane Roar, the Serbian returns to face the Reds for the second time in 10 days and will be aiming to repeat his heroics at Coopers Stadium.
Ruon Tongyik (Melbourne City)
Melbourne City’s form slump has extended to back-to-back defeats as they’ve shipped a concerning six goals over the past two weekends.
Eager to restore his side’s early-season solidity, Warren Joyce could turn to youngster Ruon Tongyik to help combat the energetic and free-scoring Newcastle Jets.
Asdrubal (Central Coast Mariners)
The Spanish striker returns from a two-week layoff in another boost to a Central Coast side looking to shore up a top six spot.
Asdrubal showed his class with two goals over the opening six rounds and gives Paul Okon another handy option in attack should he tinker with a winning formula.
Corey Brown (Brisbane Roar)
While Roar will hope for Daniel Bowles to play a part, the timely return of the club’s reigning player of the season could prove most important away to Western Sydney Wanderers.
Brown has gained plenty of big-match experience and will be a familiar, morale-boosting addition to a back four blighted by absences.
Tom Doyle (Wellington Phoenix)
Darije Kalezic has problems to address at Wellington Phoenix and they begin at the back, where his side have conceded a league-high 17 goals.
Versatile defender Tom Doyle, who has sat out the past three rounds, should add steel and bite for the visit of Melbourne Victory.
