Wanderers coach Tony Popovic feels his high-flying squad doesn’t need reinforcements in the January transfer window, but the one-time AFC coach of the year will remain on alert for talent.
“We don’t need to reinforce,” he stressed to reporters on Friday.
“You have to keep an eye open and if you’re unfortunate with an injury you want to be ready to bring someone in.
“But if there is someone you feel can strengthen the squad… it’s not as simple as that.
“[But] we’re not actively seeking anyone but in this period you have to be prepared and see what the options are out there.”
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In team news, new keeper Liam Reddy joins the squad but is likely to be on the bench, however Brendan Santalab is the only real injury concern ahead of Saturday’s Hyundai A-League blockbuster with Melbourne City at AAMI Park.
The key striker picked up a knock in last week’s draw with Adelaide and is touch and go for the meeting with the third-placed City.
In defence, former Jet Jacob Pepper is set to come into the side in place of suspended Scott Neville at right back.
Pepper is set to face in-form Harry Novillo and Co., but Popovic had no concerns about his ability to slot into the red and black defensive block against the free-scoring City, the league’s highest scorers.
“This [game] is as big as any test we’ve had… He’s [Pepper] a likely option. Yes, Harry’s a dangerous player but I’ve full faith in Jacob.”
