Covic, 43, will become the oldest player in A-League history to take to the field when he pulls on his gloves on Saturday evening.

He's been called up to fill in for Filip Kurto who was stretchered off the field last weekend following a nasty collision in the game against Perth Glory.

Kurto is still feeling the effects and has been ruled out of this weekend's games as a result.

Phoenix turned to Sydney-based Covic – who has previously played for Newcastle Jets, Melbourne Victory, Wester Sydney Wanderers and Perth Glory in the A-League – as a convenient locally-based alternative for this weekend's clash at Jubilee Stadium.

Covic's career stretches back to 1996 when he debuted at APIA Leichhardt and went onto play throughout Europe before returning to Australia and the A-League.

His elite career appeared to be drawing to a close last season when he left Glory to join Rockdale City Suns in the NPL NSW before Phoenix asked for his help this weekend.

A statement from Phoenix added today: "Wellington Phoenix can confirm that goalkeeper Filip Kurto will be unavailable for this weekend’s fixture against Sydney FC as he recovers from a concussion.

"He is recovering well and is looking to be out for only a week as he looks to return to 100% fitness.

"We take head injuries extremely seriously and player’s welfare is our priority. We expect Filip to make a speedy recovery and considering we are in Sydney, experienced goalkeeper Ante Covic will come in as short-term cover."