Giraldi's not fazed by Aloisi’s potential arrival at Hindmarsh Stadium and boasts a steely determination not to surrender his spot.

The 21-year-old striker played his full part in round eight’s 4-1 drubbing of Melbourne Victory as the men in red blew away the champions in impressive fashion.

Giraldi has been dogged by injuries for several months but the fit again forward is now anxious for a run in the side. He managed to see out three-quarters of the Melbourne game and is now looking to get a full 90 under his belt.

While delighted with the last win, Giraldi is adamant that neither he nor any of the other players called into the side for the Melbourne match will be resting on their laurels.

And should any extra incentive be needed, the mention of Aloisi’s name should help in that regard – that and the return of Nathan Burns and Kristian Sarkies from international duty.

Bruce Djite’s injury means United coach Aurelio Vidmar may move to secure the Socceroo striker’s services on a temporary basis.

“I think John Aloisi coming to the A-League would be a good thing, another big thumbs up for football in Australia," said Giraldi.

"Personally, it would be someone for me to learn from if he came here but in saying that, I’d be busting a gut to keep my hand up there for selection.

“I just hope myself and the other lads who’ve come into the side can put the coach in a situation where he has a few sleepless nights about what to do with the team.

"I’m sure it’s the sort of problem he would like to have.”

Giraldi’s appearance against the Victory ended a nightmare period which has seen him dogged by ankle troubles and quad problems.

He said: “It has been very, very frustrating and there have been times where you’re down in the dumps but the club has been so positive.

"I never doubted I’d be back. Coming in to beat the champions like that was just great, a real credit to the boys and the club itself. We responded well after they pulled a goal back and the third one (from Travis Dodd) was perfect timing.

"As for Lucas’ (Pantelis) goal, what a way to finish it off. The fans were happy and hopefully they’ll keep on coming.”

Several of Adelaide’s young stars have hogged the headlines this year but football is no longer about just two, three or even the eleven players that start a game.

“There are 22 players at this club and they’re all able and willing to play. I think the Melbourne game just shows that we have depth here,” he said.

Thrilling and pleasing as the Melbourne win was, it is history now for Giraldi.

Speaking to au.fourfourtwo.com today he said: “We had a day or so to enjoy it but it was back to business, back to work as of Monday.

"We have to focus now on the game at Sydney and prepare for that. If we go there suddenly believing we’re unbeatable then we’re in trouble.

"I don’t think anyone here thinks that. We have to work very hard again to try and take another three points.”