Sydney FC Head Coach Ufuk Talay has confirmed the Sky Blues will be without young star Hayden Matthews for their Australia Day Big Blue clash with Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park this Friday night (7.35pm).
The Sky Blues boss confirmed Matthews is currently overseas, discussing terms with another club regarding a potential transfer, calling it a “fantastic opportunity” for the academy graduate to further his career abroad.
“At this present time, we won’t have Hayden available for the game,” said Talay.
“It’s a great opportunity for him to showcase his talent overseas, and as a club, we’re proud of what he’s achieved through our academy and with the first team.”
With Matthews potentially now unavailable, Sydney FC are looking to strengthen their defensive options.
Alexandar Popovic appears close to signing a new contract that would keep him at the club long term.
Talay also confirmed the Sky Blues are actively pursuing another central defender to further bolster the backline.
“We’re very close to sorting out Popovic’s situation,” Talay revealed.
“At the same time, we’re looking to bring in another defender—someone who adds real value to the team and helps us take another step forward.”
While Matthews’ absence leaves a void in the squad, the Sky Blues will be bolstered by the likely return of German midfielder Anas Ouahim, who is expected to replace Anthony Caceres.
Caceres is recovering from a head clash sustained in last Saturday’s match with Brisbane Roar but is progressing well.
“Anas is feeling good this week and will most likely take on that role,” Talay added.
“He was set to start the last game but had an issue, but he’s feeling good now.”
Melbourne Victory’s newmanager Arthur Diles is still searching for his first win.
Despite their poor form, Talay warned an Australia Day Big Blue could be just the tonic for the opposition.
“It’ll be a great atmosphere,” he said.
“They’ll want to win to stay on track for their goals this season. But we’re focused on what we need to do.
“The boys are in a good place. We’ve had more time to recover this week with no midweek game which has helped. Preparations have been solid, and everyone’s ready to go.”
Sydney FC’s Women’s team will also take part in the Big Blue doubleheader this weekend with the match scheduled to take place immediately beforehand at 4.50pm.
