At his press conference ahead of Saturday’s game against Newcastle Jets, Marco Kurz provided an injury update as well as discussing what he learned from the previous time the two sides met.
The Reds have won three of their past four matches and will be hoping that momentum continues against the second-placed Jets.
However, for the clash United will be without suspended pair Daniel Adlung and Ben Garuccio, while Johan Absalonsen remains sidelined with a thigh injury.
Kurz said it was completely normal for players to be missing at stages during the season, citing some of Newcastle’s own absentees.
“I think it’s normal in the season (to have players missing),” he said.
“For example Newcastle also have players, (Roy) O’Donovan and (Ronny) Vargas are not available and also the goalkeeper is out.
“I think it’s normal that you must find a new line-up and I’ve got ideas in my mind and I hope they’re good.
“But in this moment I have no decision for the line-up, I still have two more days.
“But Johan is not available for the squad, I think we need time with Johan – it looks good but only small steps in the right direction.
“Taylor is close, he’s in the squad and will travel with us to Newcastle.”
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Kurz was also proud of the way his team showed immense resilience to hold on for a 2-1 win over Melbourne Victory last weekend, having been reduced to nine men.
Though the German tactician admitted his side’s focus has switched firmly on taking down the Novocastrian outfit.
“I think in this moment we had game luck and a very special team spirit from the players,” he said.
“And that was very important, I think they fought for the victory and it was a big victory for us.
“But now we know we have a new game against a very good team again, I think one of the best in the league in the offence.”
Last month Adelaide surrendered an early lead and failed to capitalise on their opening half-hour dominance against Ernie Merrick’s side, conceding two goals either side of the break to lose 2-1 at home.
Kurz reflected on what he took away from the game back in Round 6 and the things his players must rectify.
“I think we saw at the first game in Coopers Stadium, it’s not enough to play good for thirty to thirty-five minutes and create,” he said.
“You need a perfect ninety minutes against Newcastle to get a top result, that’s what I learned and also in this situation we play away and it’s a long trip.
“And we must be clever and must play very well for the ninety minutes.”
Adelaide United will face Newcastle Jets in Round 11 of the Hyundai A-League 2017/18 season on Saturday, 16 December at McDonald Jones Stadium. Kick-off is at 5.05pm ACDT.
