Culina has confirmed that Mark Milligan, Adam Casey, Ruben Zadkovich, Jacob Timpano, Ben Vidaic, Robbie Middleby and new signing Patrick are all under selection clouds for the team’s opening encounter against Central Coast.

Milligan is struggling with a virus, and while he didn't train, he was an observer at this morning’s session.

Zadkovich is away on Olyroo duty but is scheduled to arrive back in Sydney on Friday while Jacob Timpano is still around six weeks from playing.

Culina did however, suggest that midfielder Robbie Middleby may play a role in the match and revealed Patrick has still not received clearance from Brazilian authorities to play in Australia.

Melbourne Victory encountered similar bureaucratic problems when authorities stalled on clearing Leandro Love’s paperwork.

“Robbie Middleby trained but he hasn’t played for three weeks so he’s another doubt, although we may be desperate enough to use him off the bench,” Culina said.

“With Patrick Da Silva, his clearance hasn’t come through and looks unlikely. We’ve got a few problems but again, we’re ready. We’ve been waiting for this for quite a while.”

Culina admitted he's has been forced to train with some players out of position, but believes it will work in his favour as the season progresses.

“We’ve had to do that all pre-season due to injuries and other things but I think the players are getting used to it," he said.

"They now know that at any time they may be required to play a different position from what they are accustomed to.

"I don’t think it’s such a bad thing overall but it’s a little bit unfortunate particularly so close to the game against the Central Coast.”

He added: “I look at the tipster’s views to where they’ll finish this year and I noticed that Central Coast is one of the teams that is always high up there.

"Obviously they’ll fancy themselves as well. They’ve got a good squad and been together for a long time so it’ll be a tough game.

"But if you want to go places you have to win these games, especially at home.”