Squads Named for Men's A-League Derby Between Phoenix and Auckland FC
The Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC have announced their provisional squads ahead of the men’s A-League derby taking place at Sky Stadium on Saturday. The match forms part of a double header featuring both the women’s and men’s competitions.
Sky Stadium will host two A-League games on Saturday.
Injury Updates
Wellington Phoenix will be without key players, including 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.
Returning to the Phoenix lineup is Lebanese international winger Ramy Najjarine, providing a timely boost to the squad.
Auckland FC captain Hiroki Sakai is expected to miss approximately six weeks following a hamstring injury sustained in last weekend’s 2–1 victory over Adelaide United.
On a positive note for Auckland FC, All Whites centre back Nando Pijnaker is set to return after recovering from ankle surgery. Pijnaker played 45 minutes for Auckland’s reserve side last weekend as part of his comeback preparation.
Wellington Phoenix (two to be omitted)
1.
Author's Summary
The Phoenix and Auckland FC are set for their A-League derby with both managing injuries to key players and welcoming back crucial reinforcements for a competitive clash at Sky Stadium.