Provisional Squads Named for Men's A-League Derby
The Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC have announced their provisional squads ahead of the men's A-League derby scheduled at Sky Stadium on Saturday. This match is part of a double header featuring both women’s and men’s A-League games.
Team Injury Updates and Player Availability
Both teams are dealing with injuries to important players as they prepare for the derby.
- The Phoenix will miss All Whites defender Tim Paine due to a broken collarbone, defender Manrekar James with a quad strain, and winger Hideki Ishige who is out with a knee injury.
- Lebanon international winger Ramy Najjarine is returning to the Phoenix roster.
- Auckland FC captain Hiroki Sakai is expected to be sidelined for about six weeks because of a hamstring injury sustained during last weekend’s 2-1 victory over Adelaide United.
- All Whites centre back Nando Pijnaker has returned to fitness following off-season ankle surgery and is likely to be available after playing half a game for Auckland FC’s reserves last weekend.
Sky Stadium … will host two games on Saturday.
Wellington Phoenix Provisional Squad
The Phoenix have named their squad with two players to be omitted before the match.
Auckland FC Provisional Squad
Auckland FC’s squad includes key players returning from injury and those currently sidelined, indicating a mix of continuity and recovery ahead of the derby.
Match Context
This derby is a crucial fixture for both sides as they aim to secure an advantage in the A-League season.
Author’s summary: Both Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC face key injury challenges but also welcome important returns as they prepare for their tightly contested men's A-League derby at Sky Stadium.