Glory awaits rampant Victory

Grant Brebner is set to return from a calf injury and join the Victory squad for its trip across the Nullarbor against Perth Glory this Sunday, while Brazilian striker Claudinho has been omitted from the undefeated side.

Brebner was rested from last Sunday’s win over the Central Coast Mariners, which allowed the injury he received early in the match against New Zealand Knights to fully recover.

Victory coach Ernie Merrick decided that Vince Lia, who opted for the shaved hairstyle during the week, had put in a good enough performance and level of commitment throughout training to maintain a spot in the 15-man squad.

“It was between him and Claudinho as to who would be left out,” Merrick said.

“Vince has just got the work rate, the endeavour, the skills and he’s got the new haircut.”

Merrick was tempted to bring former Perth Glory player Adrian Caceres into the starting line-up at his former home ground, but he remains unlikely to alter the starting 11 of a side that has four wins from as many matches.

“I had a word with Adrian and he’s just been doing a great job for us,” Merrick added.

“He came on last week and he had two one-on-ones that he created himself, so I made a point of praising him. He’s waiting for his opportunity, but his attitude has been terrific and he’s becoming a fantastic player.”

Merrick also confirmed he would not adapt a more defensive style of play while on the road and that the side would continue with the attacking, fast-paced approach that has seen Melbourne reach top of the A-League ladder.

“We’ve kept five clean sheets in our last seven matches. I feel like we have a different team this year and I don’t want the history of last year’s team to affect this in any way, shape or form,” The Victory coach explained.

“There are a few players that have stepped up and we’ve virtually got a new midfield this year. The three midfielders from last year are really fighting for their place, which is good because with Brebner, Muscat and Fred up in the attacking midfield role, they set the standard.

“Daniel Allsopp has done well, Archie Thompson has lifted his game and Rodrigo Vargas has sorted out defence. The goalkeepers under Steve Mautone have improved out of sight and it’s great to see.”

The match will be the first time that Socceroos’ Kevin Muscat and Stan Lazaridis have played at the same venue since Australia’s famous 3-1 win over England in February 2003 at Upton Park.

Melbourne Victory Squad: 1. Michael Theoklitos (gk), 2. Kevin Muscat (capt), 3. Daniel Piorkowski, 6. Steve Pantelidis, 9. Daniel Allsopp, 10. Archie Thompson, 11. Vince Lia, 12. Rodrigo Vargas, 13. Kristian Sarkies, 14. Adrian Caceres, 15. Adrian Leijer, 16. Simon Storey, 18. Alessandro, 20. Eugene Galekovic (gk).

In: 17. Grant Brebner (return from injury). Out: 19. Claudinho (omitted). Unavailable: 8. Fred (suspension – 1 week)

A-League Round 5

Perth Glory vs Melbourne Victory
Sunday afternoon, September 24
Members Equity Stadium, Perth
Kick off: 3:00pm (local/AWST), 5:00pm (AEST)

Live Coverage on Fox Sports One from 5:00pm (AEST).