Kurz troubled by Adelaide United’s defensive depth

Marco Kurz revealed his concerns over Adelaide United’s defensive stocks after the club failed to secure a replacement for Taylor Regan during the January transfer window.

Regan, 30, was allowed to depart for Malaysian side Selangor FA over a month ago, leaving the Reds with Jordan Elsey and Michael Jakobsen as the only senior centre-backs on their books.

Kurz’s requests for reinforcements went unfulfilled and the situation was exacerbated when Elsey sustained a knock during the 3-1 defeat to Western Sydney Wanderers in Round 19.

SQUADS: All of the Hyundai Ins & Outs for Round 20
STATS PREVIEW: The key numbers behind this weekend’s matches
WATCH FOR FREE: How to watch the Hyundai A-League LIVE and FREE

New telstra banner

The 24-year-old is expected to be fit for this weekend’s trip to Newcastle Jets but his coach has reservations over Adelaide’s ability to cope with absences.

“That was one of my clear offers to the club, to sign a centre-back,” Kurz said.

“I cannot do more than to explain why [we needed to sign someone]. But we didn’t.

https://players.brightcove.net/5519514571001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6002896374001

MATCH PREVIEW: Everything you need for Adelaide’s clash with Newcastle

“I expect Elsey to play on Sunday but I know we now currently have two centre-backs in our squad and I feel not really confident with this. But I have to respect it.

“It’s more a question for [the club’s hierarchy] and not for me.

“I know what can happen with injuries and you need a strong squad for the season.

“It isn’t and it wasn’t the job of the coach to sign players.”

Kurz has entered the final sixth months of his contract in South Australia as he attempts to improve on the fifth-placed finish secured last time.

The German confirmed discussions were scheduled for the end of February and said his focus would not be affected.

“I have clear thoughts, clear ideas for my future and also for the future of the club,” he said.

“Then we must find out if we find a way together or not.

“That’s part of the situation, that’s part of the game. I think it’s normal.

“My focus is clear for the next game and that’s it. If it’s time to speak about it, I’m well prepared for the chat.”

New free to air banner