Sydney FC’s Head Coach Patrick Kisnorbo says star winger Joe Lolley could be in the starting XI for the Sky Blues’ Elimination Final against Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park on Saturday, following a two-month stint on the sidelines.
The Head Coach, who returns to AAMI Park for the first time since leaving Victory for Japanese side Yokohama F. Marinos, is relishing the opportunity to face his former team, and believes Lolley could be the man to make an impact after naming him in his extended squad.
“He could start,” said Kisnorbo. “He [Lolley] said he could [start], and he probably can.
“He’s a player that can play in occasions, as you’ve seen before.
“In training, he’s done what he’s needed to do, [it’s] great to have him amongst the squad again.
“What role he’ll play, we’ll think on that tomorrow.”
Kisnorbo, who is unbeaten as the Sky Blues’ Head Coach returns to Melbourne for his first Big Blue matchup against his old side, following a controversial departure seven games into last season.
However, he isn’t troubled by the prospect of a hostile reception from the home fans.
“[It] doesn’t bother me, to be honest. The main thing [is] concentrating on our players and what we do in the game,” he said.
“Whatever happens on the outside, for me, it doesn’t matter. I’m just going to concentrate on the occasion and how we play.
“It’s a great occasion to play in, and obviously two big clubs with amazing history.
“I’ve seen a derby game, now it’s the Big Blue, so I’ve experienced a few big rivalries in Australia; it’s great to be part of.”
Kisnorbo will coach his 5th Isuzu-UTE A-League Finals match on Saturday night and hasn’t held back in detailing what the moment should mean to his side, particularly the younger players getting their first taste of Finals football this weekend.
“If you’ve got to talk to players a lot about a moment like this, maybe they’re in the wrong sport,” he said.
“It’s do or die, and there’s very little margin for error.
“I don’t think I need to do that much talking. The occasion is the occasion.
“Our league gives them an opportunity to play in these games… just go enjoy the occasion as any young player should, there’s no pressure.”
The Sky Blues will lock horns with their inter-city rivals and Kisnorbo’s ex-side Melbourne Victory in the Big Blue this Saturday night, kicking off at 7:40pm at AAMI Park.
