Stefan Mauk declared he is ready to go from the outset against Perth Glory at Coopers Stadium on Friday night.
Adelaide United will be out to bounce back again from a disappointing away trip and hope to maintain their perfect record at home this season.
One of those tough road defeats occurred against the Glory a fortnight ago.
Mauk said the team will be determined to make amends from its 5-3 loss.
“They destroyed us, it was 5-3 but it was a really flattering scoreline for us,” Mauk admitted to reporters.
“So we’ve got something to prove against them and they’ve had a few tough games in Melbourne and we know they’re a good team but we’re really excited to come up against them.”
Mauk confirmed he is ready to play the full 90 minutes if required but stated the final decision will rest with Head Coach, Carl Veart.
The Captain missed both games against Perth and Melbourne Victory due to a calf issue before playing 45 minutes against Brisbane Roar last weekend.
“I pulled up really well,” he said.
“So got a few knocks in other places. I didn’t even think about my calf the next day which was a good thing.
“I’m feeling good and as long as the coach picks me to play I’m ready to go.”
The dynamic midfielder confirmed Tomi Juric and Javi López should be available for selection for the highly anticipated contest.
The pair both missed the clash against the Roar.
“He (Tomi Juric) trained with us today,” Mauk said when speaking about Juric.
“As long as he gets through the next couple of days, he’s up for selection.
“But he trained today and that’s a big in if he is because he’s an important player, not just for ability but he’s obviously an older player, his leadership and everything like that he brings to the table.”
Since being appointed the Club’s new skipper last year, Mauk said he has relished the role.
At 25 years old, Mauk is the youngest player in Adelaide’s history to wear the armband.
He revealed being bestowed the honour has been a great learning experience and has enjoyed mentoring some of the younger players in the squad.
“It’s been good,” Mauk continued.
“I think when I’ve played I’ve really tried to just play the same way and lead by example.
“And if I can give someone a helping hand like today – speaking to the young boys, or after the Perth game try and get them up for training and things like that, that’s an important role.
“But it’s disappointing to lose the games we have because you want to create that culture where the standards are high and nobody slips below that, but that’s bound to happen when you have a lot of young players.
“I’m learning, the players are learning, Carl’s learning, everyone’s learning and we’re always looking to get better.”
Next match details:
Game date: Friday, 5 February vs Perth Glory
A-League 2020/21 – Matchweek 07
Kick-off 6.35pm ACDT
Gates open 5.35pm ACDT
Venue: Coopers Stadium
Broadcast: Fox Sports
Stream: Kayo Sports, MyFootball Live App
