Youngster Eli Babalj has been named in Melbourne Heart FC’s squad for Saturday’s crucial clash with Brisbane Roar at AAMI Park.
Youngster Eli Babalj has been named in Melbourne Heart FC-s squad for Saturday-s crucial clash with Brisbane Roar at AAMI Park.
The 19-year-old was rested from yesterday-s loss to the Central Coast Mariners after struggling to recover in time following the weekend-s round of Hyundai A-League action.
Netting four goals in eight starts this season, Babalj has been a pivotal member of the Heart squad, demonstrating glimpses of the potential which has him seemingly destined for greater things abroad.
With Babalj-s return bolstering head coach John van ‘t Schip-s attacking options, the inclusion of Simon Colosimo is set to have the same effect at the back.
Colosimo has recovered after sustaining bruising to his left knee against Adelaide United on January 4, offering van ‘t Schip a further defensive alternative after Matt Thompson returned to the backline yesterday.
Meanwhile, Wayne Srhoj remains a week away from returning to action as he continues his bid to prove his fitness after suffering a quadriceps strain.
Srhoj has missed Heart-s last four outings due to the injury, which has sidelined the former youth international longer than expected.
Club captain Fred, Nick Kalmar and Kliment Taseski remain at least a month away from being available for selection.
Squad
1. Clint Bolton, 2. Michael Marrone, 3. Brendan Hamill, 4. Simon Colosimo, 6. Matt Thompson, 7. Rutger Worm, 8. Kristian Sarkies, 9. Maycon, 11. Alex Terra, 13. Jonatan Germano, 15. David Williams, 16. Aziz Behich, 17. Jason Hoffman, 18. Curtis Good, 19. Eli Babalj, 23. Mate Dugandzic, 30. Sebastian Mattei *two to be omitted*
In: Eli Babalj (promoted), Simon Colosimo (returns from injury)
Out: Nil
Unavailable: Nick Kalmar (back – 4 weeks), Kliment Taseski (foot – 4 to 6 weeks), Fred (groin – 4 to 6 weeks), Wayne Srhoj (quad – 1 week)
