To see Patrick and co back in training...

Juninho and Patrick both trained at Sydney Football Stadium this morning and although neither is 100 per cent fit both are expected to feature against Adelaide United on Saturday evening. New striker Michael Bridges will not feature as he awaits his visa clearance.

Sydney is also expected to welcome Robbie Middleby back into contention for the clash with Aurelio Vidmar’s side, the 32-year-old having been sidelined for several weeks.

As for his battered and bruised Brazilians, Culina said: “Juninho’s trained the last couple of days which is pleasing.

"With the injuries that he’s got it’s not an easy thing to back up day after day, particularly in a physical sort of game. We had a very spirited session today and he seemed to handle it okay for the most part.

"Fingers crossed he’ll be okay but I think it’s fair to say he will be restricted with the injury.”

As for Patrick, Culina is hoping there is no long term problem with young forward.

“Patrick had a couple of days off," he said. "He’s got a bit of a knee injury and we’re taking precautions. Fingers crossed it’s no more than a minor injury but we’ll just have to take it week by week for the time being.”

Jacob Timpano has seen the last year wrecked by injury but he joined in with his colleagues at today’s session and Culina hopes the youngster is tantalisingly close to a return.

The coach said: “Jacob has been training with the first team for about a week and he’s taken part in today’s session.

"He probably needs a couple of weeks like that to be considered. I’m looking forward to it because he’s going to be a new signing for us.”

As for Middleby, he probably needs an extra week but looks certain to face Adelaide in some shape or form.

Asked if the player would be fit enough to be involved, Culina replied: “I should say so. He’s such an important player for us.

"We need all our best players against Adelaide. If he doesn’t start he’ll certainly be in the squad.

:We’ve got Mark Milligan and Adam Casey to come back (from Olyroo duty) and hopefully they’ll be in good spirits. We need their pace and mobility.”

As for Saturday’s match itself, Culina is expecting another tough but hopefully entertaining challenge.

“Every game is a test for us," he added. "I think last time we played Adelaide here was one of the better games in the A-league this season and hopefully it will be again.”

To see Patrick and co back in training...