Western Sydney Wanderers forward Golgol Mebrahtu is hoping coach Tony Popovic’s off-season squad overhaul can help propel him into first team contention.
The Red and Black have undergone a player revolution since their ninth place finish last season, shedding 18 players and acquiring new recruits like midfielder Mitch Nichols and Italian marquee striker Federico Piovaccari.
Mebrahtu spent 12 months on the sidelines with an ACL tear sustained in his first match for the Wanderers, returning in the club’s final round defeat to Perth Glory in April, and said he’s ready to stake a claim for a starting XI position.
“To have that much time off the pitch, not being able to play, it’s mentally challenging,” he said.
“But it depends what perspective you take on it, and I’ve taken a lot from that challenge.
“I think it’ll make me a much stronger player mentally, as well as physically, so I’m looking forward to the season ahead.”
Mebrahtu said he was excited to become better acquainted with his new teammates on the Wanderers’ upcoming team camp in Coffs Harbour.
“It’s good to get fit, get ready and I think everyone that’s come in has put their head down and worked hard,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to (camp), it’ll be a good opportunity for some bonding time, because there’s a lot of new faces around.”
The Wanderers will play a preseason friendly in Coffs Harbour against Central Coast Mariners on August 7, before returning to Sydney for their FFA Cup tie against Brisbane Roar on August 11.
Realfootball
Guest
The fact he's still there shows Popa rates him. Huge potential. This season will be make or break.
144
Roar Guru
Seems he had plenty of potential a few years ago like when Gold Coast United were around before they got axed. But i want to see how he performs except in two seasons and 50 odd games he only scored four goals for Melbourne City. and only managed one match for the wanderers, but you'd expect him to be on the bench following the champons league victory and stellar a-league performance, they have better players at their disposal, but most of them are gone now and it may be the chance for him to find a spot in the first XI
AZ_RBB
Guest
Last night in Emerton was good. 3-0 win against Mt Druitt. Defence still looked very shaky but midfield and attack looked great.
Stevo
Roar Rookie
The guy's got talent but has been injured in the past and so probably never got a really good go at it. Wish him well. Still one of my favourite goals [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tu7oDqVDh3g]
josh
Guest
His time at Heart was also underwhelming, he did score a great goal against WSW though.
The artist formerly known as Punter
Guest
Hopefully he will come good, but what I have seen of him, he's looks poor, but if training the house down, then maybe he can live up to potential.
SVB
Guest
He's one of the best players in training from what I have heard. I remember a few times when we played Melbourne Heart he was easily one of their most dangerous players. Whether he has a good first touch or not we will see. Plenty of potential to work with though.
cm
Guest
Make or break middy. Read some great comments from polenz this week about popas management style, very positive stuff. When you consider that pop a shafted him more or less that's a big statement. As for goll gol, here's hoping. I know he can run on quick.
Midfielder
Guest
I think the Drive Bys will surprise a few this season... Popa's got a good Football brain and he strikes me as a person that will pull together a strong squad both team and coaching...
The artist formerly known as Punter
Guest
Wishful thinking AZ, his first touch is very weak.
AZ_RBB
Guest
Excited to see how he goes this season. Might just surprise everyone.
oly09
Guest
How can you possibly tell? He was injured within a couple of minutes of coming on in the Sydney derby and has played one game back from a serious injury.
The artist formerly known as Punter
Guest
A very average player.
josh
Guest
He's done well to still be a part of the club - I just hope that he delivers because there's been nothing so far to suggest he's worth keeping.