Western United A-League Men Squad: Round 23 vs Central Coast

John Aloisi has named his 20-man extended squad for Western United’s Isuzu UTE A-League Men Good Friday meeting with Central Coast Mariners.

The Green and Black is set to return to Ballarat for the final time this season, and will do so with Josh Risdon back in the side.

United’s vice-captain has served his one-match suspension for accumulation of yellow cards and is ready to command the right-hand touchline at Mars Stadium once again.

Risdon has been an integral part of Western United’s season and will be eager to have another big impact as United chases an important three points in the Finals race.

Another major inclusion in Western United’s extended squad is that of Matthew Grimaldi, who has been promoted after an outstanding start to the NPL 2 Victoria season.

In his first season with Western United, Grimaldi has started all seven matches so far and scored two goals from midfield, becoming a key part of Diogo Ferreira’s Under 23’s.

Grimaldi’s performances have impressed United’s first-team staff, leading to opportunities in training and now a maiden inclusion in the extended squad.

The youngster will be pushing to feature in the 18-player list on matchday as he continues his development with Western United.

After making his debut in last week’s draw against Sydney FC, Ramy Najjarine will sit this one out as the Club continues to manage his return from a groin injury.

Midfielders James Troisi and Neil Kilkenny are edging closer to a return, while Connor O’Toole and Rhys Bozinovski also remain on the sidelines.

Full Western United squad

Western United squad: 1. Jamie YOUNG (gk), 4. Leo LACROIX, 5. Dylan PIERIAS, 6. Tomoki IMAI, 7. Tongo DOUMBIA, 8. Lachie WALES, 9. Michael RUHS, 10. Steven LUSTICA, 11. Connor PAIN, 17. Ben GARUCCIO, 19. Josh RISDON, 21. Sebastian PASQUALI, 23. Alessandro DIAMANTI (c), 27. Jacob TRATT, 31. Adisu BAYEW, 37. Ryan SCOTT (gk) 38. Noah BOTIC, 39. Matthew GRIMALDI, 44. Nikolai TOPOR-STANLEY, 99. Aleksandar PRIJOVIC

Ins: 19. Josh RISDON (returns from suspension), 31. Adisu BAYEW, 39. Matthew GRIMALDI (promoted)

Outs: 20. Ramy NAJJARINE (managed)

Unavailable: 14. James TROISI (injured), 24. Connor O’TOOLE (injured) 42. Rhys BOZINOVSKI (injured), 88. Neil KILKENNY (injured)