Tim Cahill is set to debut for Melbourne City in their FFA Cup clash with Brisbane Strikers at Perry Park on Wednesday night, pending Football Federation Australia (FFA) clearance.
City unveiled their new star signing a week ago, announcing the former Millwall and Everton star had signed a three-year deal and will wear the no.17.
Cahill was not expected to debut for the Bundoora-based club until the opening round of the A-League, but he is set for an earlier than expected maiden appearance and will be on the plane to Brisbane to face Strikers.
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Coach John van’t Schip declared Cahill has received his tick of approval to take to the field at some stage during the game, but is yet to receive official clearance from FFA.
“For me he has (done enough to play), but I think the FFA still has to tick it off, so that’s what we have to wait for,” van’t Schip said.
“There will be no problem I’ve heard, so he will travel up with us.
“We have to see what kind of part he’s going to have in the game.
“Obviously he’s been out for a little period, and we have to make sure his game fitness is right to use him.
“He’s going to be part of the squad and we’ll see how we can manage him to play a part in the game.
Van’t Schip stressed managing Cahill’s early workload remained an important step in the 36-year-old’s integration into the club.
“He’s ready to play, it’s only how long and what’s in the best interests of us and Tim because he’s been out for a few weeks and didn’t do that much training.
“But he’s a fit guy, he’s taken [sic] very good care of his body during his career, but still you need a bit of a build-up and that’s what we need to look at.
“Everyone is available except Ivan (Franjic) and Cory (Gameiro).”
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