We’re set for a huge weekend of action in the Hyundai A-League with Newcastle Jets hosting Sydney FC in a 1 v 2 blockbuster on Saturday night.
Both sides are poised to welcome back some key players in what looms as one of the games of the season.
Elsewhere, Adelaide could see the return of an influential midfielder while Wanderers may bring in a familiar face as well.
Here are some key ‘ins’ ahead of this weekend’s action.
Ben Kantarovski (Newcastle Jets)
With a top-of-the-table clash in prospect, Ernie Merrick will welcome back one of his key midfielders with open arms.
Along with Steven Ugarkovic, the Jets stalwart could be handed the toughest assignment in the Hyundai A-League – quelling the influence of Milos Ninkovic and Adrian Mierzejewski.
Michael Zullo and Luke Wilkshire (Sydney FC)
Graham Arnold welcomes back both of his starting fullbacks for the visit to the high-flying Jets.
With Paulo Retre and David Carney deputising in the derby, the Sky Blues barely missed a beat, but Arnie will no doubt reunite the back-four which has served him so well in 2017/18.
Vince Lia (Adelaide)
The former Phoenix midfielder was a key man for Marco Kurz in the early part of the season, even bagging a rare brace against Victory in round three.
But he hasn’t been sighted since Boxing Day and his return to the Reds’ engine-room coincides nicely with their run to the top six.
Kearyn Baccus (WSW)
Having been a regular starter for most of the season, the combative midfielder has seen just 25 minutes of action in the last five weeks.
With Roly Bonevacia suspended, Josep Gombau may well reintroduce Baccus into the side for the visit of Perth Glory.
