To see the latest Sydney training session...

“The last game was a bit of a risk,” Juninho said after training today. “The shoulder wasn't strong enough but I think I'll be prepared for the game on Saturday.”

Sydney's marquee star is looking forward to playing against former Brazilian national teammate Mario Jardel.

“He's still a good player,” Juninho warned. “He's a dangerous player in the area and we need to be careful in the box because he's a very intelligent with the crosses.”

The pair played together in the Selecao four times. Juninho also revealed he'd spoken to the Jets striker since he'd arrived in the country. “We're good friends, not too close but good friends.”

Second placed Newcastle is again set to use Jardel off the bench as they look to regain some pride after letting Melbourne Victory back in the game in to draw 2-2 at Energy Australia stadium last weekend.

Sydney meanwhile looked the part in a barnstorming 1-0 away win over its Queensland rivals Roar last weekend and looks to have found its groove. Four points separate the two sides with Sydney sitting in fifth.

Asked whether Sydney had turned the corner, Juninho said he hoped so. “But there's a long way to go and a lot of points to win.

“As I said, always after the first three points you get the confidence and I think it will work out.”

To add further spice to this NSW derby, the Jets knocked Sydney out of last season's finals after a tumultuous second leg minor semi final at Energy Australia stadium which saw Alex Brosque sent off.

* Sydney trialled Wollongong Wolves striker Osagie Ederaro at today's training session.

The 21 year old Nigerian is a former striker in the S-League for Balestier Khalsa and was man of the match in Wolves' cup final against Manly.

He was put through his paces with the rest of the team at a training session concentrating on attacking and shooting.

"It's just his first training session," said coach Branko Culina afterwards. "I've seen him before and he seems like a promising player. I just wanted to see how he fitted in with the rest of the squad."

To see the latest Sydney training session...