New Zealand international Michael McGlinchey will be rushed back into Central Coast’s side for Saturday night’s Hyundai A-League match against Gold Coast at Gosford.
McGlinchey missed the Mariners’ 1-0 defeat against Adelaide last week and Central Coast missed the former Celtic midfielder’s attacking raids, especially in the second half.
His return is a huge boost for the Mariners for the match at Bluetongue Stadium.
McGlinchey, who was once close to signing a youth contract with Manchester United, has been one of the Mariners’ best performers during the early rounds of the Hyundai A-League.
The club has been struggling to find the back of the net but McGlinchey is a creative player and has an eye for goal.
Meanwhile, coach Lawrie McKinna said defender Chris Doig is a chance to make his first appearance since the Round 1 victory against Melbourne.
Doig has been battling a calf injury but is close to a return.
“We’re hopeful with Chris but we won’t know until closer to the game,” McKinna said.
Despite the Mariners’ struggles in front of goals McKinna is confident his team will fire against the competition’s new glamour club.
“They’ve talked it up so far but generally they’ve delivered,” he said.
“The team has a good work ethic and obviously some of the in-form players in the competition. But we’ll be going out to win it.”
The Mariners will be extra keen to take the three points in what will be the club’s 100th Hyundai A-League match.
McKinna will also be the first coach to reach 100 Hyundai A-League games.
“We’ve had some great times and it would be nice to celebrate with a win,” he added.
