While depleted in numbers, Sydney FC Head Coach Graham Arnold has every faith in his squad to get the three points against Adelaide United on Boxing Day at Allianz Stadium (kick off 7:45pm).
Arnold appealed for as many supporters as possible to turn out on Friday as he said he’d draw on the positives from the Sky Blues opening half against the Wellington Phoenix to carry over into the festive match.
“We’ve got three games before the Asian Cup starts, we’re down on numbers, but I’ve got a lot of faith in the players in the dressing room,” Arnold said.
“I think for the first 65 minutes against Wellington Phoenix we were good value and should have gone in at half time probably ahead but we’re looking to improve this week.
“In the last few weeks in my view we’ve been able to control football games and control our own destiny.
“There’s going to be some inconsistency through games and I appeal to all our supporters to be patient,” he continued.
“If ever the team needed their supporters, and we’ve got the best supporters in the league, if ever we needed them to back us it’s now.
“It’s important that the Sydney FC fans stick behind us and help us through these times. It’s a big game for us on Boxing Day, a big game for the boys to back up after four days and it’s a game we’re looking forward to.”
Competing over the festive period Arnold’s only Christmas wish was for a victory and a clean bill of health as he confirmed he was in the market for new players during the January transfer window.
“To all the Sydney FC supporters Merry Christmas. All I want from Santa is three points and no more injuries,” he said.
“We’re down to 14 players plus the goalkeepers and we just need some bodies to add some depth and strength to the squad and to add some competition to places.
“We’re looking hard and I’m not sleeping very well at the moment because I’m in contact with my network of agents in Europe with the time difference.
“I will do everything in my power to be successful for the supporters and for the board at this club. I will fight every day.”
Sydney FC take on Adelaide United on Boxing Day at Allianz Stadium (kick off 7:45pm). Pre-purchase tickets today or become a Member and ensure you don’t miss out on a moment of action this #SummerFootball festive period.
THE BIG GAME PACK – Sydney FC face some tough competition in a short space of time and we have bundled the games together for a great package, with savings of over 30% on single game ticket purchases. See the Sky Blues take on the Melbourne Victory, Central Coast Mariners, Brisbane Roar and Melbourne City for a discounted price and receive exclusive Members’ benefits! CLICK HERE!
For all Membership related enquiries, please email membership@sydneyfc.com or call 1300 4 SYD FC
