Wellington Phoenix coach Darije Kalezic admitted it was a ‘tough’ week for the club but was pleased with his side’s application in their loss to Sydney FC on Saturday night.
Phoenix endured a drama-filled week with assistant coach Rado Vidosic parting ways with the club, along with star attacker Dario Vidosic.
But despite a 4-1 loss at Westpac Stadium, Wellington impressed in patches and could have made a real game of it in the second stanza if not for some wasteful finishing.
“I can give guys only compliments for what they did tonight,” Kalezic told Fox Sports.
“…The atmosphere was unified in the group. This is something we need going forward.
“I believe honestly with a unified atmosphere, we’re going to achieve results in the future.”
With attacking midfielders Dario Vidosic and Gui Finkler both departing the club in recent weeks, Phoenix’s depth has been well and truly tested.
Kalezic admits the instability has been a challenge but remains confident his side can turn their season around with some reinforcements in the January transfer window.
“No coach is happy with all of those changes and all of those things going on in the past,” Kalezic said.
“But like I said, I have a good feeling for the future with this group of players.
“And we are looking also for players who can make us stronger from January.
“Yes I believe. We are busy [looking] to replace players who have left us.
“I think with some quality players we can change it.”
MATCH REPORT | Post denies Phoenix as Bobo masterclass continues Champions’ run 👉 https://t.co/XiHJYrZdnv#WELvSYD #COYN pic.twitter.com/444VyrxdoD
— Wellington Phoenix 🔥 (@WgtnPhoenixFC) December 23, 2017
