Words: Steve Pitman
Image: Brisbane Strikers

Brisbane Strikers are to receive a boost this Saturday with attacking weapon Josh McVey set to make his first appearance of the year against South West Queensland Thunder.

McVey, who turns 23 next month, underwent a lengthy rehabilitation after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament last August in a friendly against Brisbane Roar.

Strikers Director of Coaching David Large, who will stand-in as coach in the absence of Chay Hews this weekend, confirmed McVey will be on the bench for the Thunder clash – known affectionately as the 'lightning bolt derby' due to the clubs’ similar badges.

Large said McVey deserved a successful return after handling his injury rehabilitation professionally.

“He’s done all the right things and gone through all the right stages and processes, and he’s now at a point where he’s ready to start competing again. He’s come through training really, really well,” Large said.

“I’m proud of him and really pleased for him and it will be interesting to see what he brings to the table at the weekend. We can’t expect miracles, obviously, but he’s looking very, very quick and sharp at training.”

McVey’s return comes at a crucial time for Strikers with a series of important NPL Queensland fixtures as well as an impending Westfield FFA Cup tie against Newcastle club Broadmeadow Magic in a fortnight.

Last Sunday’s 2-1 loss to Brisbane City left Strikers in sixth position on the NPL Queensland table, equal on points with fourth-placed Redlands United but behind on goal difference and having played an extra game.

Large admitted the looming fixture congestion and Strikers’ need to manage injuries within the squad was occupying his mind ahead of the last-placed Thunder’s visit to Perry Park.

Injured defenders Jason Shade and David Salin will be joined on the sidelines this weekend by Chris Maher, who is managing study commitments.

Large explained the focus at training this week was on tweaking the Strikers’ possession game and improving their decision making in the wake of the loss to City, adding that he was impressed with the mindset of the players after their first loss in two months.

“I’ve not been as close to the players as Chay would be, but I can certainly see from their reaction at training over the past couple of nights that they are certainly very focused and looking to get back into the right frame of mind to go and get a result on the weekend,” Large said.

Kick-off at Perry Park between Strikers and Thunder is scheduled for 6:00 pm.