Carl Veart spoke to the media ahead of Adelaide United’s crucial clash against Sydney FC at Coopers Stadium on Saturday night, a match pivotal in the Reds’ push for Finals football.
The pre-match press conference touched on Veart’s contract status, the team’s defensive form, and the potential for a young debutant. Despite recent form, Veart remained focused on securing a result in a high-stakes encounter with Sydney FC.
Veart on his contract status…
“First thing, I just want to address those rumours that came out earlier in the week. I do not have a contract with the club next year. We’re in the space where we’re talking at the moment. I want to stay at the club, and that’s where it is right now. Full focus is on winning games, and that starts tomorrow night.”
Veart on how the playing group is handling the noise…
“Our job is to play football, and that’s all the players need to focus on. Yes, we haven’t played at the level we want over the past few weeks, but we’ve got to keep belief in ourselves and keep working hard. It’s still in our hands—if we win our matches, we play finals.”
Veart on Adelaide United’s identity and philosophy…
“My focus since I’ve been here has been giving opportunities to young South Australian players. That’s been my full focus. Yes, we also want to have success. We’ve gotten close a few times but haven’t quite got there. This year, we want to take that next step.”
Veart on the importance of Saturday night’s match…
“When you get to the last few games of the season, the games tighten up and become more important. There’s no difference tomorrow night. Sydney are a very high-quality side. It’s going to be a big test for the group, but I’m sure we can rise to the challenge and get the win.”
Veart on defensive issues…
“I don’t think the issues have been down to the team’s defensive structure. It’s been individual mistakes, followed by another mistake. We need to be better as a team, to help our teammates when they do make an error. We’ve worked hard on that this week.”
Veart on the possibility of another debut…
“Yeah, possibly. I’ve always given opportunities to young players if they’re doing the right things. Some have taken it, some haven’t—but that won’t change the way we play. I can’t be stubborn in that regard. I’ll do what I believe is best for the club in the long term.”
