Sydney FC coach Vitezslav Lavicka told Chinese media on Monday that he is confident his team can score a crucial win over Shanghai Shenhua at Hongkou Stadium on Tuesday night.
Sydney FC coach Vitezslav Lavicka told Chinese media on Monday that he is confident his team can score a crucial win over Shanghai Shenhua at Hongkou Stadium on Tuesday night.
It is a must win 2011 AFC Champions League clash for both the Sky Blues and Shanghai who sit in equal third in Group H on two points, three points behind Korea-s Suwon Samsung Bluewings and Japan-s Kashima Antlers.
But in a massive boost for the two-time Hyundai A-League Champions, playmaker Nicky Carle is almost certain to return from a hamstring injury and captain Terry McFlynn comes back into the side following a two-match suspension.
Carle trained strongly with teammates on the match eve and, if able to play, will no doubt cause massive headaches for the Shanghai defence – much like he did in their 1-1 draw at the Sydney Football Stadium a fortnight ago.
“Yes, we have had problems with injury during the Asian Champions League. I am confident Nicky Carle will be back but we will see after training,” Lavicka said.
“We have several key players back in Sydney with injury but this is part of it. We are confident we can come to Shanghai and score a win. It is important we do.”
Lavicka will be without defender Stephan Keller (ankle) and David Williams (calf) but will be buoyed by his sides- performance against Shanghai.
The Sky Blues created an abundance of goal scoring chances in that clash but couldn-t snare the winner.
“It is very big for us that Terry McFlynn our captain is back. He is hard working and our leader,” Lavicka said.
“We know about them and how they play and we have prepared for that. They will be a tough opponent, like all the ACL teams, but we are feeling good and are happy with ourselves. We can do it.”
