Jets coach Ernie Merrick has hinted at a host of changes for Thursday's A-League away clash against Melbourne City after his side’s tired display last week.
Merrick confirmed Ben Kantarovski and Joe Champness will enter calculations for a starting spot after coming off the bench in their 3-2 loss to Wellington on Saturday night at McDonald Jones Stadium. Mid-season pick-up Riley McGree is likely to be added to the bench.
McGree was involved with Jets teammates Champness and Nick Cowburn in the Olyroos' recent loss in China.
Merrick said striker Roy O'Donovan was closing in on a shock return from his groin injury, despite initially being ruled out until March. He scored seven goals in eight games before the injury.
"Roy is driving me nuts. He's so keen to play this Thursday but I'll speak to the physio," Merrick said.
"I went to his training session, playing four on four, he's scoring goals left, right and centre and running hard. It's great to see because it's six weeks ahead of where he should've been.
"It's a credit to him. I like him pushing for a position but I'd like to see him train for a full week."
