Nick Ansell has been given a vote of confidence by Melbourne Victory coach Kevin Muscat as he prepares to take his place in the starting line up against the Central Coast Mariners tomorrow night.
The 19-year will replace Adrian Leijer at centre back after the former captain received his marching orders on the stroke of half time against Adelaide United last week.
“Nick Ansell is the obvious replacement for Ado,” Muscat told assembled media on Thursday morning.
“I thought he was superb for us when he came on last week and the games he’s played this season for us he’s been exceptional so I had no hesitation bringing him back into the team.”
Aside from Leijer’s absence, vice-captain Leigh Broxham will also be unavailable due to suspension – accumulating his fifth yellow card of the season on Saturday night.
Muscat revealed that full-back Jason Geria is set to reclaim his spot in the starting line up at right back in Broxham’s absence.
“It’s disappointing considering he came in last week at full back and did an exceptional job but Jason Geria will come back into the team for Leigh Broxham,” Muscat said.
With competition for spots increasing as Victory’s season improves, Muscat is hoping these latest inclusions can make the most of their opportunities.
“These two boys have got an opportunity now to impress and from my part I hope they take it,” he said.
Midfielder Rashid Mahazi is also expected to retain his place in the starting line up but all eyes will be on winger James Troisi who was involved in a touchline altercation with his head coach after his substitution last weekend.
“Thats been dealt with and I’ve moved on,” Muscat said.
“Certainly nothing personal – James is available to play for us on Friday night and we’re looking forward to a good performance from him.”
Victory however boast a less than impressive record against the Mariners at Gosford, something Muscat is aware of as he looks to achieve a result against the Champions.
“I always maintain its all about what we do than the opposition because I believe that if we play anywhere near our best we’ll trouble anyone in the competition,” Victory’s head coach said.
“Having said that during the week we’ve dissected the Central Coast and done our diligence on them and analysed how they go about things.
“They are very strong defensively so from out part we’re going to have to be good once again in our structure when we haven’t got the ball but I do believe at those moments in time we are dangerous even without the ball.”