Provisional Squads Announced for Men's A-League Derby
The Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC have named their provisional squads ahead of the men's A-League derby at Sky Stadium on Saturday. This match is part of a double header featuring both the women's and men's A-League games.
Injury Updates and Team News
Both clubs face challenges with key players missing due to injuries. The Phoenix will be without All Whites defender Tim Paine, who suffered a broken collarbone, defender Manrekar James with a quad strain, and winger Hideki Ishige due to a knee injury. However, Lebanon international winger Ramy Najjarine will return to the Phoenix lineup.
Auckland FC captain Hiroki Sakai is expected to be sidelined for six weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury during last weekend’s 2-1 victory over Adelaide United. On a positive note, All Whites centre back Nando Pijnaker should be available following his rehabilitation from off-season ankle surgery. Pijnaker recently played half a match for Auckland FC’s reserves.
Match Venue
Sky Stadium will host both fixtures on Saturday, promising an exciting day for fans of the A-League.
"The Phoenix will be without All Whites defender Tim Paine (broken collarbone), defender Manrekar James (quad strain) and winger Hideki Ishige (knee). Returning to the Phoenix roster will be Lebanon international winger Ramy Najjarine."
"Auckland FC captain Hiroki Sakai looks likely to be sidelined for six weeks with a hamstring injury suffered in last weekend’s 2-1 win against Adelaide United."
Wellington Phoenix Squad Note
The Wellington Phoenix have named a larger provisional squad from which two players will be omitted before the match.
Author’s summary: Both Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC prepare for their A-League derby amid key injuries, with important players returning and sidelined ahead of the double header at Sky Stadium.