Adelaide United utility, Michaël Maria, says he has relished playing in Gertjan Verbeek’s attacking philosophy.
The Reds produced a blistering spell of slick football which culminated in three first-half goals to cancel out Central Coast Mariners’ sixth minute penalty in a 3-1 win in Gosford.
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Maria, who joined the Reds over the offseason, was again impressive, notching the assist for Nikola Mileusnic’s volley after a brilliant run and cross.
He also instigated the equalising goal when his inside ball saw Ben Halloran and Riley McGree exchange passes before the former scored.
“I’m happy that it’s nice to watch, but it’s also satisfying to be part of this team, playing like this in an attacking way and not defending the whole time,” he told Fox Sports after the match.
“We want to be the ones who are setting the pace and kind of decide what happens on the pitch.
“So I’m happy with the playing style that we have right now.”
One of Maria’s biggest strengths is his versatility, with the Curaçao international capable of being deployed in multiple positions.
Against the Mariners he operated at left-back.
“I’m giving my best in every position that the coach wants me to play,” he stated.
“Where the team needs me, I’ll be and eventually we’ll see when everyone is back how we’re going to play (in the future).”
Verbeek has twice previously managed Maria, first in Germany with VfL Bochum and then in the Netherlands with FC Twente.
Maria was asked about the constant instructions he was receiving from the boss, and said he takes it in his stride.
“I’m used to it, he’s always talking to me and he’s also a perfectionist just like I am,” he explained.
“So I understand him and I just try to pick up everything he’s telling me and try to perform as best as I can.”
Adelaide United host Melbourne Victory in Round 7 of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season on Saturday, 23 November at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.00pm ACDT. Gates open at 5.30pm. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports, Kayo Sports and the My Football Live App.
