With a FIFA Match Day break next weekend, Adelaide know three points against Phoenix is of utmost importance as the squad prepares to play five games in 16 days, comprising of three Hyundai A-League matches and two AFC Champions League Quarter Final legs, which includes one in Japan.

United Coach Aurelio Vidmar is aware that three points against Phoenix will have his team in a positive position heading into a demanding September schedule.

“It is a must win. If we can win this one we will go into the break in a really good position,” Vidmar said.

Bolstering United’s chances on Saturday is the return of striker Paul Agostino and midfielder Diego to the main training group.

Agostino is in line for an immediate call up, while Vidmar said Diego would probably need another week to be considered. Veteran defender Michael Valkanis has also been named in an extended squad.

“He (Agostino) was probably ready last week but we were just a little bit precautionary with him so he’s ready to go,” Vidmar said of his marquee signing.

“It’s pleasing to have Diego back training because he adds a lot to our team. He’s still lacking a bit of match fitness and he pulled up a bit sore after yesterday’s training, so he will probably miss out this week.”

The last time United played Wellington, Agostino scored in a 2-1 win, the match starting an impressive run for the striker as he scored a further three goals in the next two games.

The Reds’ only injury concerns are Olyroo Kristian Sarkies, who is a week away after suffering a minor knee injury at training last week, and Cassio, who continues to improve from a calf injury.

Playing at home against a Wellington side that they defeated 4-1 in the only previous encounter at Hindmarsh Stadium last season, United know they must improve on last Sunday’s performance against Queensland Roar to register their second win of the season.

Phoenix were on the wrong end of a 4-2 score line at home against Melbourne Victory last weekend, and Vidmar is wary of a team that will be determined to make amends.

“They will certainly be wounded from the four goals they conceded last week but I don’t think they’re that bad a team. Obviously the conditions were pretty horrendous over there and when the conditions are like that there are going to be mistakes being made,” Vidmar said.

“Wellington are a much better football team than that and they may have conceded four goals but they created a hell of a lot going forward and I think that is where their real strength is.”

Leading Phoenix’s attack is Shane Smeltz, who played with United in the club’s inaugural season in the old NSL.

Smeltz has already netted three goals this season, and defenders Angelo Costanzo, Sasa Ognenovski and co will need to be on their guard.

With the one millionth spectator to a Hyundai A-League match featuring Adelaide United set to come through the gates on Saturday night, the Reds will have just one thing that will make it a night to remember and that’s a win over Phoenix.