Western United boss John Aloisi has named his extended squad for Friday night’s Isuzu UTE A-League Men Semi-Final first leg against Melbourne City.
Hat-trick hero Noah Botic is ready to go after managing a slight knock through the week with stiff competition for United up front.
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Hiroshi Ibusuki made his return from injury in last week’s Elimination Final and Michael Ruhs has been in top form in three straight starts, leaving Aloisi with a decision to make.
After coming off with an adductor injury in that win over Adelaide United a week ago, James Donachie will miss this first leg but could be in contention to return for the second leg next week.
In his place, Aloisi has called up two young defenders in Kane Vidmar and first-timer Riley Foxe who has been impressing in the Western United Academy side.
Charbel Shamoon is also included in the extended squad and will be eager for a return on matchday.
Dylan Leonard is poised to become the youngest-ever player to start in an Isuzu UTE A-League Semi-Final tie, continuing his incredible first season in professional football.
Angus Thurgate and Rhys Bozinovski will be hoping to continue their standout seasons in midfield while the Green and Black’s contingent of young stars will all look to shine on the big stage including Matthew Grimaldi, Abel Walatee and Oliver Lavale.
Full Western United Isuzu UTE A-League Men Extended Squad
Western United squad: 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, 22. Kane VIDMAR, 23. Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 24. Michael RUHS, 26. Riley FOXE, 29. Charbel SHAMOON, 30. Dylan LEONARD, 32. Angus THURGATE, 33. Matt SUTTON (gk), 44. Jordan LAUTON, 70. Michael VONJA (gk), 77. Riku DANZAKI
Ins: 22. Kane VIDMAR (promoted), 26. Riley FOXE (promoted), 29. Charbel SHAMOON
Outs: 4. James DONACHIE (injured)
Unavailable: Nil
