Del Piero set for super-sub role - Breaking News - Sydney Morning Herald - Sydney Morning Herald

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Alessandro Del Piero is set to be unleashed off the bench as a Sydney FC super-sub should he be declared fit for Saturday night's A-League derby.

The veteran Italian striker has been battling to prove his fitness for Saturday night's showdown with Western Sydney, having missed last week's win over Wellington with a hamstring complaint.

The 38-year-old trained with his teammates for the first time this week on Friday, giving hope he could still feature in front of an expected crowd of around 30,000 at Allianz Stadium.

But he won't be risked if there's any doubt over his fitness and it's understood at best he will start on the bench.

That would put the former Juventus star in an unfamiliar role as an impact player, having started in all of his eight A-League appearances so far.

Sky Blues coach Frank Farina said a final decision on Del Piero would not be made until Saturday.

"It's disappointing when you lose a player of his calibre to an injury but it's progressing," Farina said.

"We'll see what happens today and leave it until tomorrow to see how it's going to go but, at this stage, he's still in my plans."

Returning Socceroos Brett Emerton and Terry Antonis could come straight back into the starting line-up, while youngster Blake Powell is likely to retain his spot up front after a strong display in the 2-1 win away to the Phoenix.

Captain Terry McFlynn is suspended.

Both clubs head into the match on a high after the Wanderers secured a last-gasp win over Brisbane Roar last week.

And such is the fickle nature of the A-League ladder, a win could move Sydney into the top six despite a winless run of five games prior to beating Wellington.

Spirits appear high at Sydney FC under Farina, who has put the focus on intense training sessions since taking the reins of the club two weeks ago.

"With hard work and results, you gain confidence," Farina said.

The Wanderers welcome back Aaron Mooy from international duty while striker Mark Bridge (groin) could be fit to face his former club after missing the win over the Roar.

Sydney won the inaugural clash between the sides at Parramatta Stadium in October, 1-0 courtesy of a Del Piero goal.

Wanderers coach Tony Popovic felt his side may have been overawed on that occasion and wants to ensure it doesn't happen again.

"I have to make sure that the players do not get caught up in the moment," Popovic said.