Ufuk Talay is urging his Sydney FC side to become more clinical ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Newcastle Jets.
The Sky Blues coach is pleased with the way his players are forcing turnovers – but wants their hard work to lead to more goals.
“We haven’t capitalised on those moments where we’ve pressured teams and created chances and I think that’s something that we definitely need to improve on.
“There’s always room for improvement, but look, slowly we’re getting there,” he said.
Talay has spent the week working on his side’s defensive set up following the Unite Round defeat by Adelaide United.
Losing experience defender Jack Rodwell to injury required a defensive reshuffle with Jake Girdwood-Reich switching to a defensive role from his normal midfield beat.
And the loss of regular left-back Joel King created more selection headaches for the boss.
“Jack coming out of that space caused a change and we pushed Jake back in there. He needs to adapt again to that role playing as central defender.
“So, we’ve had to try to rectify those things this week in training and get the players a better understanding of it.
“We are creating those moments to win games and we just got to make sure that we defend well as a team. That starts from the front all the way through to the back.
Forward Jaiden Kucharski is out of tomorrow’s 7:45pm kick off at Allianz Stadium with concussion – adding to an injury list that also includes experienced striker Robert Mak.
Talay said: “Jaiden is out this week after getting hit on the head with the ball in the last game. He’s out with concussion – so that’s another player that we will miss.
“I think he’s been very good when he’s played and when he’s been within the squad. It’s another player out but another opportunity for someone else to step in.”
Match Details
Sydney FC v Newcastle Jets
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 13
Friday 19th January 2024
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, NSW
Kick Off: 7:45pm AEDT
Gates Open: 6:45pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+
Tickets: Click Here
Matchday Partner: IMAA
