The man Central Coast coach Graham Arnold described as the best left-sided defender in the A-League returns for the Mariners’ biggest game of the season on Saturday night.
In-form Joshua Rose has fully recovered from a stomach bug and will be rushed back into Arnold’s starting side for the crucial showdown against Adelaide at Hindmarsh Stadium.
Rose was rested for the Mariners midweek trip to Perth last week and then was a late withdrawal for Sunday’s Sydney match when he picked up a virus.
Arnold is delighted to have him back for such a big match.
With four games to play the Mariners are in second spot, only one point ahead of the rampant Adelaide.
”I think he’s the best left back in the A-League,” Arnold said this week.
”He’s been fantastic for us all season.”
”He’s scored goals, set up goals and gives us great balance at the back.”
”A big part of our success so far this year has been defence and josh has been a big part of that.”
The return of Rose is tipped to be Arnold’s only change.
Pedj Bojic started at left back in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Sydney but will return to his prefered right back position on Saturday night.
Rose replaces youngster Trent Sainsbury.
Central Coast’s defence will be well and truly tested by Adelaide.
In its past two matches Adelaide has scored 12 goals and will be full of confidence, especially playing in front of what is expected to a big crowd at Hindmarsh Stadium.
