The condition has had Sarkies recuperating on the sidelines for the past four months but his return to competitive training and an improved commitment to the team made him an obvious starter for the game at Hindmarsh Stadium on Wednesday.

Reds coach Aurelio Vidmar said the 21-year-old had overcome his DVT and had deserved his recall.

"He's got the all clear from medical staff and the specialists, so he's got no problem with it," Vidmar said.

"The hour he gave us last week against Melbourne (in a trial match) showed us that he is really focused and committed to doing his best for the team."

Vidmar said he was pleased with the former Victory player's attitude in difficult circumstances.

"It's been tough for him because the last four months he's been training on his own and because he wasn't allowed to get himself into any physical battles or any physical contests," he said.

"The last three or four weeks he's been able to join the group and I've seen a massive improvement in him.

"He's still inexperienced in terms of the amount of games that he's played at A-League
level. He's probably played more international games than he has A-League games.

"I've got all the faith in the world, all the confidence in him that he's going to do a great job tomorrow."

Sarkies will replace the injured Jason Spagnuolo who was ruled out after training on Monday.

"Jason finished the whole training session but then we had to test him with his knee and when it came to really aggressive crossing and some set pieces, that are required for his position, he's pulled up a bit sore so we are not going to take the risk," Vidmar said.

The Reds other big comeback story is Paul Agostino, who has also spent four months on the sidelines with injuries, while Robbie Cornthwaite returns from suspension.

The duo will start the game on the bench.

"He (Agostino) had 20 minutes last week against Melbourne Victory and I think that has done his confidence a world of good," Vidmar said.

"Depending on how the game goes he might see some game time."