Cernak: Move to Glory not a done deal
‘I’ve been in talks with a few clubs and I’m just trying to make the best decision. But at the moment I’m enjoying the football here and that’s my focus.’
FOOTBALL
ISAKA CERNAK says the Wellington Phoenix are one of several clubs in the mix for his signature next season, despite Ricki Herbert believing the attacking midfielder had already committed to A-League rivals Perth Glory.
The Australian under-23 international showed some nice touches in his first start with the Phoenix, Saturday’s 1-0 win over Perth at Eden Park.
Phoenix coach Herbert yesterday said that Cernak — who is on contract with Wellington till the end of the season — had ‘‘signed at Perth’’ for next season.
But just minutes later the player said that was not the case.
‘‘It’s not a done deal at the moment but I’m not too sure how it will go,’’ Cernak said of his talks with Perth.
‘‘I’ve been in talks with a few clubs and I’m just trying to make the best decision. But at the moment I’m enjoying the football here and that’s my focus.’’
Cernak, who also has Brisbane Roar, North Queensland Fury and Melbourne Victory on his A-League resume, said sticking with the Phoenix was a possibility.
‘‘It’s definitely been good so far. Obviously they’ve given me this chance to come in here and I’m very grateful for that. I’m focusing on repaying that faith for the rest of the season and then who knows from there.’’
Despite the confusion over his contractual status, Herbert was impressed with Cernak and said he was a good shot to start for the remainder of the season.
The ninth-placed Phoenix yesterday flew out of Wellington to prepare for tomorrow’s visit to the league leading Central Coast Mariners in Gosford.
They are without suspended centre back Ben Sigmund and injured fullback Leo Bertos (groin).
Isaka Cernak
Herbert said Michael Boxall would slot in for Sigmund, with midfielder Manny Muscat reverting to his old position at right back.
That means a likely promotion for Louis Fenton into midfield, while Ian Hogg will hold his place at left back.
Tony Lochhead (illness) didn’t travel yesterday and while he may fly today, Herbert said he would at best sit on the bench.
Hogg would have started even if Lochhead was healthy.
‘‘I think it’s one thing playing at home, basically, to going away against the league leaders,’’ Herbert said.
‘‘So I think that’s a test that I want to see, about future signing for Ian. To retain his position now and step up against the best team in the league, then we’re going to get a really good indication.’’
Benjamin Totori was also part of the travelling party, while Herbert didn’t think the changes to the defence would be disruptive against the well-drilled Mariners.
‘‘I don’t think so, the thing with Michael is that he hasn’t played a lot . . . but it’ll be kind of a marking job on [Daniel] McBreen so I think he’s capable of that.
‘‘Manny, well he could have been the best right back in the league last year so I think he’s comfortable to play there. I don’t think that’ll be an issue for us.’’