United’s vice-skipper and his colleagues are preparing for a punishing few weeks which will test both their physical and mental strength.

As well as their two-legged Asian Champions League quarter-final, United also face A-League clashes with both Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC.

Pantelis told au.fourfourtwo.com: “This is a massive period coming up for the club and it will require a real team effort to get through this busy time.

“Still, that’s why you have a squad of 22 or 23 players, it isn’t just about the 11 players who start.

“I know all the boys are really looking forward to the matches (both ACL and domestic fixtures). It is huge for the club but I also think it’s huge for the A-League.

“We want to do well for Adelaide United and our supporters but I think we also want to show that Australian clubs can compete with the best, to show the A-League is up there.”

An Adelaide boy in different club colours will also be looking on with interest as United tackle their hectic schedule.

Sydney FC striker John Aloisi said: “Adelaide have started well but they’ve got a tough run now. They’ve got Melbourne, then they go to Japan and then they’ve got us.”