New Adelaide United Captain, Isaías, said playing each game on its merit will be key to enjoying a positive Hyundai A-League 2017/18 season.
The Reds will be out to start their new season with three points against Wellington Phoenix at Westpac Stadium on Sunday, having been made to wait nine rounds last year.
Adelaide boast a strong record over their New Zealand counterparts, recording three wins and two draws in their previous five matches.
Speaking at Adelaide Airport, Isaías said the team is thrilled to begin the new campaign after such a long off-season.
“Everyone is feeling really excited, we have had a long pre-season,” he said.
“We worked really hard and we look forward to starting this new season.”
Waiting for the season to kick-off be like… pic.twitter.com/16rLKWZqYe
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) October 6, 2017
The Phoenix will be without New Zealand internationals Tom Doyle, Andrew Durante and Michael McGlinchey for the clash.
Despite the trio absent through national team duty, Isaías was adamant it will remain a tough match.
“I think they have a couple of players out, but it will be a difficult game,” he said.
“I remember that every game I’ve played there is a difficult game for us and the conditions are always difficult.
“They’ve a good team and I think it will be a tough game.”
The 30-year-old said he has enjoyed the added responsibility of being officially handed the captaincy a fortnight ago.
“I’m really happy with my role at the moment,” he said.
“I think it’s really exciting for me and I hope I can help the team for this season.”
Isaías further praised the squad’s quality, but stressed the key to experiencing a successful season is to take one match at a time.
Marco Kurz has selected his squad for Round 1. 💪 #AUFC #ForeverUnited
📰 Read More: https://t.co/j8YKUkl5c3 pic.twitter.com/pGetX5t6E3
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) October 5, 2017
“We would like to focus game by game,” he said.
“I think it’s important to focus on the next game and that’s against Wellington.
“From there we’ll see, but everyone knows we would like to win every game and hopefully we’ll be at the top at the end of the season.
“I think we have a good squad but it’s too early to say where we’ll finish, but I hope we can fight to be at the top of the table.”
The Spaniard, who has been at the Club since 2013, said he has adjusted just fine to the more pragmatic and disciplined German playing philosophy.
“I feel comfortable at the moment,” he said.
“I think we have changed a little bit of the style but it’s pretty similar, they’re not big changes.
“I think we will be alright and I think it’s a new chapter for Adelaide United and everybody is really excited about this new chapter.”
Team news
Defensive midfielder Vince Lia is unavailable to face his former teammates, missing the clash through suspension, while Tarek Elrich remains on the sidelines as he continues his recovery from a serious knee injury.
Last five meetings
2-2 draw @ Coopers Stadium
0-0 draw @ Westpac Stadium
2-0 win @ Coopers Stadium
0-4 win @ Westpac Stadium
3-0 win @ Coopers Stadium
Adelaide United will face Wellington Phoenix in Round 1 of the Hyundai A-League 2017/18 season on Sunday, 8 October at Westpac Stadium. Kick-off is at 2.30pm ACDT.
