Melbourne City FC Head Coach John van’t Schip revealed striker Harry Novillo and defender Aaron Hughes will be fit for Thursday night’s clash with Adelaide United as his side prepares for the Round 5 encounter.
City come into the clash after their first loss at AAMI Park since November last year and the Dutchman is confident that with more inclusions to the side, his side will be stronger as more of his regulars return to the frame.
“Harry is back, he’s going to be available for selection, he got through test last week before Newcastle so he’s going to be available for selection,” van’t Schip said.
“He has been really professional. He worked very hard. It was tough because it was 12 weeks before he could come back.
“Harry had difficult moments because with his injury, you can feel fit after a few weeks so we had to be careful but last week’s tests were good so he’s ready now to start getting into the team.
“Aaron is another one that is going to be available. He came through the intra-club game on Saturday, played an hour and now he should start getting closer to coming into the side.
“It’s always difficult with centre backs because you can’t really start (chopping and changing) so we’ll just have to manage that. He has to get back to game fitness and the only way you can get that is playing at a high level so we’ll try to see what we can do but he’s not a 90 minute player yet.”
City will have another short turn around this week as they face Adelaide United on Thursday night and the Head Coach made it clear that the Reds’ poor start was not a clear reflection of their performances.
“Their results are not good but looking at the games they have played, if you look at how many chances they still create and how much possession they have, the signs are there,” van’t Schip said.
“They conceded two goals late last week but they started well and have played good football so it’s a very thin line and some things of course have changed there but they are still a good football playing team.
“We have to be prepared, they’re looking for their first win and they’ll be motivated. It’s an important game for them as well so every game is difficult and we just have to be prepared.”
City face the Reds on Thursday night at Coopers Stadium. Click here to see the full team news
