Adelaide United Head Coach Theo Tsiounis says the Reds are focused on clarity, intensity, and connection as they prepare to face Perth Glory in Ninja A-League Round 8 on Sunday night.
After a disrupted fortnight marked by illness and a postponed fixture, Tsiounis believes the playing group is trending in the right direction. Several players have returned to training and the squad is embracing the challenge of an away trip to Western Australia as an opportunity to continue building on its identity and processes.
Tsiounis on the health of the squad and influenza update…
“The health of our playing group has been the priority. We’ve had a number of players affected by influenza A over the past week, which understandably disrupted continuity. The positive is that the group is trending in the right direction and several players have returned to full training, others are reintegrating gradually, and we’re managing loads carefully. We’ll continue to assess day-by-day, but overall the squad is in a much healthier place than it was recently.”
Tsiounis on resetting mentally after disruption…
“Mentally, the reset has been important. Having a match postponed and dealing with illness can easily become a distraction, but we’ve framed it as a challenge rather than a setback. The mindset now is about embracing the opportunity ahead.”
Tsiounis on balancing flexibility with clarity in preparation…
“Balancing flexibility with clarity is always critical, especially in periods like this. While preparation has been adjusted daily, our principles haven’t changed.”
Tsiounis on the group’s resilience against Melbourne Victory…
“The performance against Victory told us a lot about this group. We had players dealing with fatigue, illness, and uncertainty, yet they showed enormous commitment, togetherness, and a willingness to work for each other. It is a reflection of the culture within the squad, and it’s something we’re very proud of.”
Tsiounis on the challenge Perth Glory present…
“Perth present a different challenge. They’re a physical, direct side, particularly dangerous in transition, and they ask different questions to what we’ve faced recently. Playing away from home also adds another layer, so our ability to manage moments, stay composed, and be disciplined will be key. It will require a high level of collective responsibility.”
Tsiounis on staying true to process amid disruption…
“Staying true to our processes is important right now. External factors will always come and go, but the process is what keeps us focussed. We know that if we continue to execute our principles consistently, the outcomes will follow.”
Tsiounis on what he wants to see on Sunday…
“On Sunday, we want to see clarity in our football, intensity in our actions, and strong connection between the players. If we’re competing with intent, making good decisions, and staying aligned in how we play that tells us that we’re moving in the right direction and continuing to build.”
