City shocked many after the inclusion of Ross McCormack in their squad after it looked like he succumbed to an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury last week.

The Scotsman was subbed off for Nathanial Atkinson in the half hour mark of their 3-1 loss to Sydney FC.

However, the Victory boss said it would be a waste of time guessing what City’s motives were.

“It doesn’t affect the planning whatsoever and I haven’t given it any thought,” Muscat said on Friday.

“Everything is about making sure all the details, preparation and planning for the group has been spot on.

“To be thinking about who will be playing for the opposition would’ve taken some energy away from what’s important. What’s important is what we do tomorrow night.”

McCormack playing against the Sky Blues last week

Leigh Broxham has also been ruled out which means Stefan Nigro could be in the starting XI against City.

Key man Mark Milligan will also be in contention for the Christmas Derby.

Milligan came off in the final 20 minutes a fortnight ago against Adelaide United with a minor hamstring problem which caused him to miss last week’s 2-1 away win over Brisbane Roar.

The Victory boss said the 32-year-old ticked all the boxes in training this week.

“I think it’s great for the group to witness how he’s conducted himself over this time and to give himself the best chance of being available,” he said.

“It was a big thing for us as a group to observe and particularly the younger players in the group about what it means to be a top professional.

“He’s been meticulous in his rehab. It’s a big boost for us for him to be available.

“The injury wasn’t anything over the top, but it needed to be treated and the staff have done that unbelievably well. Most of all, Millsy has represented himself really well.”

Muscat also understood the fans’ frustrations so far this season as they sit sixth on the table.

“Every three points means a lot to the members and fans,” The Big V manager said.

“The reality is it’s a big occasion, pre-Christmas has always been special, we embrace it, look forward to it. The best way to do that is just worrying about ourselves and putting a performance together the players will be proud of.

“If the playing group is proud of the performance, I dare say the fans will be also.”