Sydney FC Hit by Injury Setback as Sky Blues Coach Makes Unexpected Derby Comment: ‘It Would Be Fantastic’

Sydney FC’s head coach, Ufuk Talay, is optimistic that Wanderers’ star Juan Mata will be fit to participate in this weekend’s highly anticipated Sydney Derby at Allianz Stadium as the Spanish international strives to recover in time for Saturday’s clash.

The Spanish World Cup champion’s participation in the match is uncertain following a hamstring injury sustained during the 1-0 victory over Brisbane Roar.

In a statement on Wednesday, Mata expressed that he is “feeling better every day,” while also acknowledging that recovering from a ‘hamstring is never good news’ when asked about his chances of returning for the Derby.

“Personally, I’d love for him to play,” Talay stated when questioned about his plans regarding the involvement of the former Chelsea and Manchester United player.

“Having top players like Douglas (Costa) and Juan Mata on the field would certainly enhance the match.”

He further remarked: “It’s a fantastic spectacle for the fans to see two great players competing for their teams.”

“Given the extent of his injury, we’ll have to wait until match day to assess the situation and determine how serious it really is.”

“If he is able to play, that would be fantastic for the game and beneficial for his team. However, our primary focus will remain on our own preparations.”

With regards to the Sky Blues, Talay noted that he has some challenging selection decisions to make ahead of the game.

Doulgas Costa is expected to feature after recovering from his hamstring injury. He played 10 minutes against Adelaide United in Round 17, but Talay indicated that his playing time will be carefully monitored.

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“It’s a delicate balancing act with Douglas. The medical team has prescribed a limit on his minutes in the match.

“Moreover, we have a crucial ACL (Two) game on Wednesday that requires our attention. Douglas is eager to play.”

“If I asked Douglas to put in a full 90 minutes, he’d jump at the opportunity. But in reality, we want to ensure he’s available for the ACL fixture as well.”

He continued: “We’ll determine our strategy on game day, and if we can refrain from using him, that’d be ideal, ensuring he’s fit for the Wednesday match.”

Additionally, Talay confirmed that recent debutant Kyle Shaw will once again take the field in place of the injured Alexandar Popovic.

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The 22-year-old has solidified his loan from K League 1 side Gwangju FC with a permanent three-and-a-half year contract with the Sky Blues, although he will miss the match due to an ongoing groin issue.

New recruit Alex Grant is also doubtful to be included in the lineup, having seen little game time since departing Chinese Super League side Tianjin Jinmen Tiger F.C.

“Joel King and Alex Grant are currently uncertain for the weekend,” Talay mentioned, confirming that Shaw is likely to partner club captain Rhyan Grant in central defence once again.

“Popa (Popovic) won’t be in the squad. He’s still dealing with his OP (Osteitis Pubis) injury, but fortunately, we have depth in that area to make alternative arrangements.”

One player whose future at Sky Park appears uncertain is the underutilised winger Max Burgess.

The 30-year-old has not featured for Sydney FC since their Round 4 defeat to Macarthur FC at Allianz Stadium and has been linked with a potential exit during the current transfer window.

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“He remains a part of the squad,” Talay replied when asked about Burgess’s chances of being included this weekend.

“Everyone is considered leading into a match, and we will confirm our squad before kick-off.”

When probed about whether Burgess would still be with Sydney FC once the transfer window closes on February 12, Talay responded:

“I really can’t say at this point.”

Ufuk Talay on Max Burgess’s potential departure from Sydney FC during the current transfer window.

As for the match itself, the Sky Blues have an opportunity to become the inaugural team in Sydney Derby history to win all three encounters of the regular season, as they gear up to face the Wanderers this Saturday.

Currently positioned 5th on the ladder, the Sky Blues have a chance to solidify their standing in the finals race while simultaneously moving six points ahead of their rivals.

“Derbies are always thrilling,” Talay stressed. “It’s yet another match in the competition where three points are up for grabs. The atmosphere and rivalry between the teams, as well as their supporters, add to the excitement.”

“We view it as just another opportunity to secure three points because we are clear about the direction we want to head in and our end-of-season goals.”

He added: “I believe the Wanderers will approach this game similarly. They might be a bit more assertive in the early exchanges, yet they will likely revert to their usual strategy, forming a mid-block defence and looking to seize possession quickly to counterattack us.

“As we tend to attack with numerous players, they will find opportunities to counter, which they execute well.”

“They possess quality players capable of transitioning effectively, and we must be vigilant, especially when we lose possession during play.”

“Currently, there’s just a three-point gap, so if we win, we will create a six-point buffer between us and the Wanderers, while continuing to strengthen our own position going forward.”