EXCLUSIVE: Sydney FC star Alex Wilkinson talks about the boycott of the Sky Blues finals, Melbourne City’s dangerous men and his own retirement ahead of the blockbuster A-League finals
- Sydney FC are confident they can bring down Melbourne City
- Alex Wilkinson said the team is full of confidence
- The first semi-final is on Friday at the Allianz Stadium from 7:45 p.m
Sydney FC defender Alex Wilkinson has stated supporters of The Cove will be welcomed with ‘open arms’ ahead of Friday’s semi-final against Melbourne City at Allianz Stadium.
It follows a large number of fans boycotting last weekend’s elimination semi-final victory over the Wanderers due to the decision by the Australian Professional Leagues to sell the hosting rights to the A-League Grand Final for the next three years to the NSW government.
Representatives from the Cove have confirmed on social media that they will return on Friday to cheer on their heroes.
Wilkinson, 38, braces for a frenetic 90 minutes as City’s imposing front trio of Jamie Maclaren, Mat Leckie and Marco Tilio.
The veteran was also coy about whether this season will be his last at A-League level.
Sydney FC defender Alex Wilkinson has stated supporters of The Cove will be welcomed with ‘open arms’ ahead of Friday’s semi-final against Melbourne City at Allianz Stadium
Former Socceroo Alex Wilkinson braces for a frenetic 90 minutes as Melbourne City’s imposing front trio of Jamie Maclaren, (pictured) Mat Leckie and Marco Tilio
“It will be great to have the Cove fans back, they’ve been fantastic for us,” Wilkinson told Daily Mail Australia.
‘Last week [the boycott from Sky Blues fans] is old news…we desperately need our supporters to create an intimidating atmosphere.
“We had the highest fan turnout this season on average, and that doesn’t go unnoticed, it really gives the boys a boost.”
Beating the national champions in the semi-finals of the first leg is the next big goal for Steve Corica’s men.
Collectively, they are well aware that a win would be an emphatic statement to the rest of the league.
‘[Melbourne] City are a quality team, they are the benchmark and winning three titles in a row is impressive,” said Wilkinson.
“But we beat them this year… and have players all over the park to hurt them.
“We also know it would be hugely important to get a result at home before traveling to Melbourne [for the second leg].’
Wilkinson is also enjoying his time at the heart of defense with ex-Everton star Jack Rodwell
When he pressed about his football future, the former Socceroo didn’t give much away.
Wilkinson did say his hunger hasn’t waned, and after missing half the season with a pelvic injury, he feels fresh.
“I’m going to sit down at the end of the season and weigh things up,” he said.
“The body feels good, so we’ll wait and see.”
Tickets are still available for Friday’s clash, with kick-off at 7.45pm at Allianz Stadium.