Western United stars Hiroshi Ibusuki and Tate Russell are in line to make their returns from injury at the perfect time.
John Aloisi has recalled both players into his extended squad for Friday night’s huge Elimination Final against Adelaide United at Ironbark Fields.
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Both players have missed the last two matches after picking up their respective injuries in the match against Brisbane Roar.
Prior to that, the two pre-season signings had played in every match this season and will be eager to get right back on the pitch for finals football.
Ibusuki has scored 10 goals in his debut season for the Green and Black, striking up an prolific partnership with Noah Botic up front.
The Japanese No.9 will be out to prove his quality again and help United triumph over his former side.
Russell’s energy and quality on both sides of the ball has been a significant influence on the team throughout the campaign.
Whether available to start or come off the bench, the right-back will have eyes on making an impact again and helping Western advance to the final four.
Those two returns mean Aloisi’s squad is entirely fit and ready to perform in front of United’s home crowd in Tarneit.
Abel Walatee and Oliver Lavale will hope to make an impact as they have done in recent weeks, while James Donachie will look to build on two straight starts at the back.
Full Western United Isuzu UTE A-League Men Extended Squad
Western United squad: 4. James DONACHIE, 5. Oliver LAVALE, 6. Tomoki IMAI, 7. Ramy NAJJARINE, 9. Hiroshi IBUSUKI, 10. Matthew GRIMALDI, 13. Tate RUSSELL, 17. Ben GARUCCIO (c), 19. Noah BOTIC, 20. Abel WALATEE, 23. Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 24. Michael RUHS, 29. Charbel SHAMOON, 30. Dylan LEONARD, 32. Angus THURGATE, 33. Matt SUTTON (gk), 37. Luke VICKERY, 44. Jordan LAUTON, 70. Michael VONJA (gk), 77. Riku DANZAKI
Ins: 9. Hiroshi IBUSUKI (returns from injury), 13. Tate RUSSELL (returns from injury)
Outs: Nil
Unavailable: Nil
