Milligan set for mid move

SOCCEROO Mark Milligan looks set to move back into midfield for Melbourne Victory’s visit to Western Sydney tonight as the changes continue.

Veteran Dino Djulbic, who was the only central defensive mainstay during his three-game stint, has left after his injury-replacement contract for James Donachie ended.

With Donachie still at least a week away from returning, Rhys Williams and Leigh Broxham appear the likely stopper’s pairing against the improving Wanderers at ANZ Stadium.

James Troisi’s suspension could see Terry Antonis, who impressed in his first Victory start last week, pushed forward into an attacking midfield role.

Stopper Thomas Deng will be assessed today after flying direct to Sydney from Olyroos duty, but at best would start on the bench having played 90 minutes just 48 hours earlier.

Victory coach Kevin Muscat conceded that Matt Acton could keep his spot despite Lawrence Thomas returning from injury, while he was eager to return Milligan to midfield. “We’ve looked at a number of situations where we might get Millsy back into midfield where he’s played well for us. If that can happen this week or not, we’re yet to decide, but that’s the long-term plan,’’ he said.

“He’s gone back and showed great leadership to settle the ship in a time of need.

“Whether we don’t really play with an out and out attacking midfielder. We’ve got the option of playing Terry there.

“He’s just as capable sitting deepest and building up and giving the team confidence as going box to box. He’d be very comfortable at the point in that attacking midfield role also with his economy on the ball. He keeps possession of the ball and makes telling forward passes.”

Muscat praised Djulbic’s contribution while querying Troisi’s booking, which was picked up on the bench after he was subbed off in the 3-2 win over Perth Glory last week.

“He (Troisi) threw a bottle of water on the ground and it bounced five yards, You get booked for that these days,’’ Muscat said.