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Sydney star Grant to miss A-League games

3 minute read

Socceroos defender Rhyan Grant has been cleared of a serious groin injury but is expected to miss a couple of Sydney FC's games before the A-League finals.

RHYAN GRANT of Sydney FC passes during the A-League match between Sydney FC and the Wellington Phoenix at WIN Jubilee Stadium in Sydney, Australia.
RHYAN GRANT of Sydney FC passes during the A-League match between Sydney FC and the Wellington Phoenix at WIN Jubilee Stadium in Sydney, Australia. Picture: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

Sydney FC star Rhyan Grant has been sidelined with a groin issue as the Sky Blues take no chances with the defender ahead of a tilt at a record fifth A-League title.

Socceroos full-back Grant came off the ground early in Sydney's last-start loss to Newcastle, though scans did not reveal a serious problem.

"He will be out for probably a couple of games but the most important thing for him is to make sure he's fit leading into the semi-final," Sydney coach Steve Corica said.

Grant, whose energetic work on Sydney's right hand side forms a key part of their structure, said there was no rush for him to return to action.

"We wrapped up the (minor) premiership ... I just want to make sure I'm good to go when we get to finals," he said.

"It should be fine in a couple of weeks."

Corica will look at rotating players through his starting line-up, as the A-League champions face a demanding schedule.

They play four games in 15 days leading into the finals, starting with Saturday's clash with third-placed Melbourne City.

"It's a tight turnaround, but you also want to go into the finals on a good run with the team that's pretty much going to be starting games in the semi-final and final," Corica said.

"But you do want to give players rest as well and there will be opportunities in a couple of the games to rotate a few of the players, and to give a couple of the younger boys opportunities they deserve."

Having secured a record fourth Premiers Plate, Sydney are now looking to set an outright record for grand final wins, a mark they currently share with Melbourne Victory.

Corica, who has been part of the club as a player and a coach since its inception, said the current side was up there with Sydney's previous trophy-winning squads.

"The team Arnie (Graham Arnold) had was a very good team, they are all very good teams in their own right," Corica said.

Meanwhile, Sydney striker Kosta Barbarouses is the first player to win a Premiers Plate with three clubs, having previously achieved the feat with the Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory.

However, there was a point of difference for the New Zealand international this season.

"It's the biggest margin with games to spare that I've won a premiership," he said.

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