In-form striker Besart Berisha has saved plenty of time for pleasantries with his old club, but has admitted whilst on the pitch tonight, his focus is solely on Melbourne Victory as the Brisbane Roar come to Etihad Stadium
The former Albanian international spent three seasons at the Roar, which included two A-league titles, a golden boot and the Brisbane player of the year award.
He says that whilst he maintains strong relationships with his old teammates, his focus is squarely on performing for the Victory.
“For me, I have a lot of friends there but this game, it’s very important for Melbourne Victory, and of course I need to be very professional and focus on my team,” Berisha said.
“After the game I hope still to speak to them. I have a lot of respect for them, the team Brisbane, the supporters.”
Berisha said that despite their poor start to the season, Brisbane still pose a serious challenge for the title, should they make their way into a finals position.
“They play the last game very well, so we have to try to play our best game, because this is the way you can survive against Brisbane,” he said.
Being the focal point of the Victory’s attack, there’s pressure on Berisha to add to the five goals he’s scored since moving south.
The man himself is unsure whether or not he will celebrate if he does indeed find the back of the net against his old club.
“If I score, it will be good. This is the first thing,” he hinted.
“I have a lot of respect for my old club, and for me it’s important to score and help my team; I’m not sure yet what kind of celebration it’s going to be.”
On the issue of booing, Berisha is not concerned.
“In football, this is the way, if you’re opposite and you hurt the other team, always you get booed.”
Melbourne Victory take on a Brisbane Roar side who have worked themselves into some good form. Kick-off tonight at Etihad Stadium is scheduled for 7:40pm.