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Sydney FC marquee man Nicky Carle says the Sky Blues have run out of excuses and must start performing if they’re to make the A-League finals.
The defending premiers have had a nightmare title defence, winning just four of their 20 matches to stand second-last on the competition ladder.
Despite their struggles, Sydney are just six points outside the top six and the finals zone and Carle says the team’s charge must start in Thursday’s visit by the Melbourne Heart to the Sydney Football Stadium.
“We all know it’s a crucial stage of the season,” the attacking midfielder told reporters on Tuesday.
“There’s no more ‘oh there are still lots of games left’. There’s only 10 games to go now. we know what we need to make the finals.
“That’s our goal, we’ve still got plenty of belief we can do that. It’s about getting results and doing that quickly.”
Sydney’s struggles have almost been personified by those of Carle this summer.
Since joining the club he’s only made six appearances as foot injuries, a hamstring strain and a back problem have left him sidelined and lacking in match fitness.
But the 29-year-old feels his injury woes are behind him and he’s ready to start having a major impact on Sydney’s remaining fixtures.
“I’ve been lucky the past few years. I’ve gone 5 years without an injury that’s kept me out for more than a game,” he said.
“But this season has been just one of those seasons. I’ve put my head down and done everything I could do while injured to get my body right and I’m hoping I can repay some of the club’s faith in bringing me back in and putting in some good performances.”
And while Carle is likely to play some role against the Heart, either starting or off the bench, Sydney coach Vitezslav Lavicka admits there’s some doubt over the fitness of key striker Alex Brosque.
Broqsue has a groin strain that he’s been nursing for the past two games, will train on Wednesday before a decision is made based on how he pulls up.
If he plays, it will likely be from off the bench.
“Brosquey is a question mark at this moment. Alex wants to play, wants to help the team in the crucial moments on the park but we must manage it,” Lavicka said.
“We’ll see what medical staff will tell us about him and after that we’ll make a decision.”
Thursday’s match kicks off at 7pm AEDT.
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