Perth Glory’s defensive stalwart Michael Thwaite, has praised the mix of WA youth being injected into the current squad by head coach Kenny Lowe.
Glory has had a horror run of injuries of late and key players have been sidelined for several weeks, but the former captain has dismissed suggestions the mood within the camp has been down.
“We’re not deflated at all. We’ve had a lot of things go against us during the season but I think the success we’ve had with the FFA Cup and blooding young WA players has made a positive feel within the group. I think we had three WA players come off the bench and I don’t think we’ve seen that before in Perth Glory history I think , so yeah I’m really happy the direction the club is moving in – but again we need to win games” he said.
Thwaite said he was encouraged by Coach Lowe’s attempts to blood young local talent, even though recent results hadn’t gone their way.
“In the four years I’ve been here we haven’t seen enough WA players come through and I think Kenny in breeding the NTC program he’s probably the best person to know the next generation coming through. We already see a captain that’s from WA I’d love to see the core of the team from WA – why not! But at the end of the day it’s also about getting results.”
Thwaite, who has been used in a defensive-midfield role by Lowe in recent weeks, admitted that results had to improve, particularly on the back of last Friday’s 5-1 loss to Melbourne City.
Glory keeper Ante Covic criticised his teammates after the match, describing the performance as having “more holes than Swiss cheese”. Thwaite stressed it wasn’t down to inexperience or individual error and emphasised the team defended as a whole.
“There were a few holes but hopefully I can be the olive that goes into the Swiss cheese” he joked.
“We really need to step up as players otherwise all our jobs are on the line. The coach, the players everyone because you want success at the club, that’s why we’re playing in the A-League, we want to do well.”
Glory will face off against last placed Adelaide United on Sunday at Coopers Stadium.
“I wouldn’t say it’s a ‘must win’, I don’t agree with that game but we need to start moving up to be part of the top six” Thwaite said.
The match kicks-off at 430pm WST and can be seen on Fox Sports 505 and listened to on ABC Grandstand.
Glory returns to nib Stadium on December 12 for three home games in seven days in what will be a Festive Feast of Football.
