George in, Geria out for Victory
STAR Melbourne Victory winger Leroy George will travel to Japan for Wednesday’s Asian Champions League clash against Kawasaki Frontale after being cleared of a muscle strain.
Right back Jason Geria will travel to Japan solo after his $800,000 transfer to ambitious second division club JEF United was ratified.
Geria made the last of his 132 Victory appearances in all competitions as a substitute in the 2-1 win against Melbourne City on Friday night after a frantic day of negotiations.
Victory coach Kevin Muscat was keen to keep Geria after the January loss of marquee player Mark Milligan to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli.
But the Victory board decided to accept JEF United’s second offer for Geria, 24, after the first was rejected.
Utility Leigh Broxham will become even more important after Geria’s exit, although Muscat is likely to persist with Olyroos defender Thomas Deng at right back.
George’s clean bill of health adds to Victory’s derby delight after his late winner upstaged Bruno Fornaroli’s penalty.
In contrast, Daniel Arzani was limping heavily after cramp although he has 12 days before City’s next game, away to Adelaide United.
Victory departs for Japan today with teen striker Pierce Waring replacing Geria in the Champions League squad.
Muscat hailed a “comfortable” derby win that drew Victory within a point of thirdplaced City.