The Jets will host Saturday’s Grand Final against Melbourne Victory in front of a sell-out crowd at McDonald Jones Stadium, which has a capacity of 33,000.

Newcastle finished last in the 2016/17 season and hadn’t made the finals since 2010, before this season’s heroics under Merrick.

“I always felt it was a sleeping giant waiting to come out of its reverie,” Merrick said. “It’s as good as it could’ve gotten.

“I always anticipated it was a team that was going to go places knowing who was in charge, knowing Martin Lee was on board, Lawrie McKinna was the CEO.

“Everything has fallen into place beautifully, right from recruiting and pre-season training, coping with injuries and suspensions, all the way through and I expect it to be the same this weekend.”

The former Melbourne Victory and Wellington Phoenix mentor says he never expected Newcastle’s on-field turn-around to be so rapid.

“To be honest I didn’t,” he said. “I thought we’d make major inroads, moving upwards on the ladder but to be in a Grand Final is a bit of a surprise.

“The boys have been so impressive. Now we’re here, we’re going to make the most of it, not only this week but we’re going to play our best football this weekend.”

The Jets boss also said he felt a sold-out crowd could play the role of 12th man and roar his side to victory.

“Having a full house with Novocastrians and Hunter region fans will be terrific for us and very important for the outcome of the game,” he said.