Despite being fit, United hardman Salley was initially missing from the Reds team sheet for the Round 14 clash against Perth Glory before promotion to the bench at the last minute.

Rumours during the week suggested Salley and coach Aurelio Vidmar became involved in a heated exchange after the Ivory Coast born player was substituted during Round 13 against Newcastle.

But Vidmar was in no mood to give anything away instead focussing on the reasons behind his team selection.

“I had a chat to Jonas yesterday,” said Vidmar. “Jonas is very good at putting people under pressure, very good. Probably the best in the competition.”

“But he’s got a couple of faults which cost us a lot of the times. He knows what they are and he needs to improve on those things.”

Vidmar has been made to earn his stripes this season as last month back up goalkeeper Robert Bajic walked out on the club unhappy at being overlooked for selection ahead of new signing Eugene Galekovic.

Bajic was given a week’s leave of absence before returning to the club.