Sydney FC Head Coach Graham Arnold believes Terry Antonis should have been cleared to play against Melbourne Victory on Saturday night at Allianz Stadium (kick off 7:30pm).
Antonis was removed from Socceroos duty by the Socceroos staff on Monday, and Arnold has expressed his belief that Antonis should be clear to play on Saturday having served the six day minimum concussion requirements.
“We’re leaving it up to Tony Pignata and the club [to deal with the FFA over the issue],” he said.
“Our belief is that we released him Friday night after the game to go play for the Scoceroos and he got injured or concussed while on Socceroo duty on the way to the airport.
“The Socceroos staff have opted for him not to travel over on Wednesday so we don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be able to play.
“We’re following the guidelines from the doctors and our doctors are checking Terry everyday but he’s moving around well and he’s extremely disappointed that he’s not in Japan,” he continued.
“That’s what we wanted, we wanted him to be there playing for the Socceroos. It’s an interpretation of the rules the 6 days and Saturday is the 6th day.”
Arnold named Antonis in his squad earlier today however he was subsequently declared ineligible by the FFA.
“We’re following the guidelines the doctor gives us but as far as we’re concerned he’ll be named in the squad to play this week,” Arnold said this morning.
“As I see it he has to train fully the day before and be given the all clear. He’ll do something today and we’ll hold off on the tactics until tomorrow. He’ll be in the line up tomorrow.”
Sydney FC will contest the beyondblue Cup against the Melbourne Victory at Allianz Stadium on Saturday 15th November. Gates open at 6pm for a 7:30pm kick off. Purchase tickets today or become a Member today and ensure you don’t miss a moment of action this season.
*Terry Antonis is sponsored by Proud Player Partner Arthur Galan AG.
GET YOUR MEMBERSHIP NOW! – Get in quick and make sure you don’t miss a moment of Sky Blues action this 2014/15 Hyundai A-League season by purchasing your Sydney FC Membership now. Enjoy a seat at every home match and free public transport to the games. Sign up to our Newsletter now to keep up to date with all the clubs happenings.
