We went a day later with Midweek Matters last week, so to balance that out, we’ve gone a day early this week…
Ministerial Matters
The club was delighted to welcome WA Minister for Sport and Recreation, Mick Murray, as its guest of honour at the Chairman’s Function ahead of Saturday’s clash with Wellington Phoenix.
During his speech, Mr Murray confirmed that the Home of Football business case will be reviewed by government in the first quarter and that he’s looking forward to attending our prestige friendly against English Premier League giants Chelsea at the new Perth Stadium next year.
He also added some humorous anecdotes regarding his participation in the game during his younger years.
Mantelpiece Matters
Sam Kerr must surely be considering some serious home renovations after receiving yet another award overnight.
Her collection for the year includes the Westfield W-League Julie Dolan Medal, NWSL MVP and Golden Boot, AFC Women’s Player of the Year, Women’s Health Sportswoman of the Year, West Australian Young Australian of the Year and ABC Sports Personality of the Year, to which a place in the International Federation of Football History Women’s World Team of the Year can now be added.
Kerr was named alongside the likes of USA superstars Alex Morgan and Carli Lloyd in the side which is based upon votes cast by coaches, media and administrators from more than 90 countries around the world.
Ready to return
Alex Grant is set to come into the selection mix for Thursday’s clash with Brisbane Roar after recovering from a hamstring problem.
The central defender sustained the injury in the latter stages of the defeat at the hands of the Jets a fortnight ago and was subsequently ruled out of Saturday’s win over Wellington.
But he has trained strongly this week and is expected to join the travelling party for the trip to Queensland.
Seeking a start
Andreu, meanwhile, could be in line to start for the first time since Round 6 after an impressive appearance off the bench against Wellington last time out.
The Spaniard’s composed presence in midfield was a key factor in Glory’s improvement during the second half and with his calf injury now seemingly fully behind him, the 34-year-old is pressing for a spot in the run-on side at Suncorp Stadium.
Sights set on Sydney
Andreu’s compatriot, Xavi Torres, is recovering well from his groin injury and is targeting a comeback against Sydney FC in Round 13.
Like Grant, the former Barcelona man limped from the fray against the Jets a fortnight ago but is set to resume full training in the next few days.
Mitch Moves On
Mitch Mallia has returned to Sydney after his injury replacement contract with the club expired.
The 25-year-old was originally brought in to provide cover after Joel Chianese was sidelined by a cracked collar bone from which he has now recovered.
Mallia made one start and five substitute appearances during his stint here in the West and scored in the Round 8 win over Melbourne City.
The club would like to thank him for his efforts and wish him all the very best for the future.
Walker staying put
Glory’s other injury replacement player, Jeremy Walker, has had his contract extended.
With Marc Warren not expected to return from his ankle injury until the New Year, Walker will remain on board.
The 24-year-old Tasmanian has been a regular feature in the first team since arriving in October, chalking up seven starts to date.
Grab a gift!
Glory’s Team Store will be closed from 5pm on Friday 22nd December before reopening on Tuesday 2nd January at 9am.
So make sure you drop by this week to grab that special something for the Glory fan in your life!
Tickets
Tickets are available here http://bit.ly/2yUMi6R for our next home game against Adelaide United on Friday 5th January and don’t forget that kids go free at the next Westfield W-League game which sees Glory face Brisbane Roar at Dorrien Gardens on Friday 29th January.
#CREATEDESTINY
