To see the stars of the finals in their suits at today's launch...

 

Victory, a two-time grand final winner from three appearances, kick-off their finals campaign this weekend on the glitter strip against Gold Coast United.

Finishing fifth, Victory will have to do it the hard way but Merrick’s quiet confidence centres on the depth of his squad ahead of the club’s tilt at a history making third championship.

“Having players returning like Surat Sukha, Carlos [Hernandez] getting fitter and Archie Thompson looking good, it’s ironic that we’ll have our best side out after we’ve already qualified for the finals,” he told au.fourfourtwo.com.

Speaking at today’s launch of the A-League finals, Merrick added that the club’s youngsters were also key to what Ange Postecoglou has said is a competition increasingly for younger players.

“There are a lot of young players moving into our squad," he said. "Diogo Ferreira is a regular at right back, Petar Franjic has stepped in for Kevin Muscat and Mate Dugandzic has been a regular.

“Robbie Kruse is still young plus we’ve signed Isaka Cernak for next season and young Tando Velaphi, so there’s no doubt of a changing of the guard but it’s also been smooth as we’ve been able to get into the finals at the same time."

Add a young skipper in newly appointed Adrian Leijer and the side’s regeneration is in full swing ahead of a busy off-season that includes the Asian Champions League.

What effect suspended captain and inspiration Kevin Muscat will have on a younger side in the finals is yet to be seen but Merrick remains confident and has pledged to retain his attacking style.  

He added: “I’m always excited about being in the finals, that’s what the club’s all about. We’re a club where the expectation is not only to make the finals but we’ll finish first or second.

“No-one’s ever won it from fifth spot but we’d love to accept that challenge and have a go.”

To see the stars of the finals in their suits at today's launch...