The Olyroo picked up a second yellow card of the competition in the 2-2 draw with Shandong Luneng, and will be joined by Bruce Djite in the stands after the striker also earned a second caution.

While Adelaide can't make the knockout round, Burns said he was desperate to play in what will be Carl Veart's final match.

"Regardless of all the travel and training you always want to be out there trying to help the team succeed but unfortunately suspension is part of the game and there's nothing you can do about it," Burns said.

"It's disappointing because it will be a really special night being Carl's last game and it would have been great to have been out there with him to celebrate what a fantastic player he's been for the club."

Burns and Djite will now have a well-earned rest, after a very busy three months since the Hyundai A-League season finished.

Both players have been involved in Australia's Olympic qualifying campaign, as well as the Asian Champions League.

Adelaide United coach Aurelio Vidmar says the commitment of his young players has never wavered during this time and he's been extremely pleased with their progress.

"They have had an extremely taxing schedule over the past couple of months but their dedication and determination to the team and the games they have played has been tremendous," Vidmar said.