City midfielder Anthony Caceres says he’s looking forward to embracing everything that comes with a Melbourne Derby on Saturday as his side prepares to take on Melbourne Victory at Etihad Stadium.
Caceres will prepare for his second Melbourne experience on Saturday after coming off the match-winning goal in Wellington and the Club’s number 10 says they’re ready to start the season with consecutive wins.
“The attention from the press and everyone involved gets you excited and looking forward to the game, it’s great to be a part of and I’m looking forward to it,” Caceres said.
“The last Melbourne Derby was the biggest derby I played in and for me, the energy from the fans affects the game tremendously.
“As players, you want to rise to the occasion and put everything you put into the game and those are the things that add to the atmosphere of the game.”
Adding to the excitement of the 20th edition of the Melbourne Derby is the potential debut of Tim Cahill.
With the Socceroos legend adding another element to City’s line up, Caceres feels his contribution to the team during the pre-season has been immense but says no one’s position is guaranteed.
“(Tim has) slotted right into the playing group. He’s very humble despite all his success and I think he brings a calmness to the team and assurance and his ability on the pitch speaks for itself,” he said.
“He’s achieved great things and he’s looking to achieve things here, he is not here for a holiday, he’s here to help the game really grow.
“Competition for places in our squad this year is very, very strong. I see it as a positive thing, it’s a chance for everyone to test themselves in a competitive environment where we are all on the same page and working towards one goal and that’s achieving something this year.
“Personally, for me to get on the scoresheet is great but I see it as helping the team and whether my roles is starting or to come off the bench, hopefully we get the win and that’s the important thing.”
Caceres and City will hope to take the honours on Saturday as they’ll look to notch their seventh win in Derby history at Etihad Stadium, kick-off 7.50pm.
