New signings in line for debut in Cup clash

Tomorrow night the 2025/26 campaign will get underway for Sydney FC when they take on Western United in the Australia Cup Round of 32.

The Sky Blues have made the trip down to Tarneit to face a side that finished 3rd in the league and Ufuk Talay is not prepared to take them lightly.

“We know the quality that Western United have in their ranks and their league position last season wasn’t an accident.

“We have put in the work across the first few weeks of pre-season to put us in the best position for this game and if we execute our game-plan, we can progress to the next stage of the competition,” Talay said.

The Sky Blues defeated Blacktown City 4-1 in a pre-season friendly last week

The Sky Blues have made a number of new signings ahead of the 25/26 campaign and the Head Coach revealed that is it likely that a number of them will earn their first caps in Sky Blue.

“Paul [Okon Jnr] and Al Hassan [Toure] have both integrated really well into the group this past week and they are in the travelling squad for this clash.

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“Rhys has been here since the start of pre-season and fans have seen a glimpse of him against Wrexham however he is also in line to make his debut in this game,” he continued.

Paul Okon Jnr
Rhys Youlley
Al Hassan Toure

“A number of the players who featured in the Wrexham game are still within the squad and will also be part of the side travelling down to Tarneit for this one and we will look to utilise them throughout the game.”

On the injury front, Talay also shared an update.

“Unfortunately Harrison [Devenish-Meares] picked up an ankle injury in training so he will miss this clash, however, Alex Grant has recovered from his calf issue and will join us in Tarneit for this game.

Alex Grant has signed a two year deal and is back available for selection

“Gurdy [Aaron Gurd] is our only long term out as still he recovers from surgery.”

Finally, Talay provided an update on Douglas Costa.

“Douglas [Costa] is still in Brazil and his personal issues are taking a little longer than expected to sort out however we have still be in constant communication with him and we expect him to be back in Sydney this week,” Talay concluded.