McKinna's Mariners host Queensland Roar on Saturday evening with the visitors looking to extend their unbeaten away record.

However, there is a strong possibility that Miller will miss out as his hernia problem appears to be worsening.

McKinna admits a Miller-less Roar would be a welcome proposition, not that he isn't concerned about the other threats they pose.

He told au.fourfourtwo.com: "I'm not exactly sure what the situation is there (in terms of fitness) but if Charlie Miller isn't involved then that is a loss for them.

"You look at what Charlie has brought to the team and the competition. He's scored goals for them and some of those goals are real class goals as well.

"He is a clever player who has tremendous awareness. He's been very, very good."

Despite having beaten Queensland already this season, McKinna is taking nothing for granted.

He said: "They have pace in midfield and pace up front. We have to work hard to close them down and to deny them space."

McKinna remains adamant that his team got out of jail with their draw at Perth last week.

He said: "I don't think it was a case of a kick up the backside, more that you have to be on your game every week."