Sydney FC Head Coach Ufuk Talay has confirmed a major boost ahead of Saturday’s clash with Newcastle Jets, with Joe Lolley available for selection after returning on schedule from injury.
Lolley missed the Sky Blues’ recent trip to Perth but has completed his rehabilitation and rejoined the group this week.
“Joe’s on schedule, he’ll be back and available for selection,” Talay said.
“It’s a positive sign for the team and the group.”
Talay added that they will manage his minutes with a busy schedule coming up over the festive period and warm conditions expected in Newcastle.
“We’ll see how we utilise Joey in the game,” he said.
“The medical staff are very happy with where he’s at — he’s in a good place.”
Injury updates and squad depth
Talay also provided an update on Paul Okon Jnr, confirming the midfielder remains on track to return the following week against Auckland.
“That was always the plan,” he said.
“He’s tracking well, and hopefully we make him available for the Auckland game.”
Respect for the Jets challenge
Despite sitting at the top of the table, Talay is wary of a Newcastle side he believes are better than their results suggest.
“There’s always a target on your back when you’re sitting where you’re sitting,” he said.
“But our focus is on what we do. We’re playing against a very good footballing team.”
Reflecting on Sydney FC’s previous meeting with the Jets, Talay acknowledged both sides will take lessons into Saturday’s contest.
“There are always learning moments from each game,” he said.
“We try to find solutions based on how they set up and how we can create moments.”
Defensive growth showing
Talay credited the Sky Blues’ defensive improvement this season to increased experience and depth across the back line.
“The experience we brought in with Marcel [Tisserand], Alex Grant, Rhyan Grant, Ben Garuccio— that depth makes a big difference,” he said.
“Last year we had talented young players, but they were inexperienced at times. Now we’ve got good balance.”
Backing the full squad
Talay also praised the professionalism of players currently on the fringe of matchday squads, emphasising the importance of internal competition.
“Every player wants to play, no matter their age,” he said.
“Their role is to push the players who are playing. No one should feel comfortable.”
“If we have success, we all have success together.”
Looking ahead
With a run of away fixtures nearing its end, Talay reiterated the importance of taking things one game at a time.
“This is our fourth away game in a row,” he said.
“We take it game by game. Everyone’s in a good place, and we continue to move forward.”
Sydney FC face Newcastle Jets on Saturday afternoon before returning to Leichhardt Oval for a blockbuster clash with Auckland FC.
Match Details
Newcastle Jets v Sydney FC
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 9
Saturday 20th December 2025
McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
Kick Off: 5:00pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Drama
