The Newcastle Jets play host to Western United on Easter Monday in an encounter that both teams will feel confident in securing maximum points.
Monday’s game holds some extra importance for Jets front-man Valentino Yuel, who spent last season with the outfit.
But according to coach Craig Deans, neither Yuel or Apostolos Stamatelopoulos have anything to prove.
“He’s been playing well,” Deans said.
AP is another one from Western United, so they’ll have some motivation.
“Val and AP need to stay focused in the game. I think Val went down to the game in Adelaide and tried too hard and went away from his strengths.
“There’s nothing for them to prove to me or their teammates here. We appreciate what they’ve done for us since they’ve been here.”
The Kenyan born winger departed the Victorian club at the end of the 2019/20 campaign after failing to score in his first A-League campaign.
Yuel came to Newcastle looking reinvigorated and determined.
With an impressive pre-season under his belt and solid trial performances against Macarthur and Brisbane, he was handed a 2-year deal.
It was clear the Jets had a silky striker in their squad.
He has enjoyed a good start to the 2020/21 campaign, netting on 4 occasions and will be looking to come out firing against his former side on Monday evening.
Stamatelopoulos joined the Jets prior to the transfer window opening earlier this year.
He made 12 appearances for Western United between 2019 and early 2021 and provided plenty of energy and a goal in his four appearances for the Jets.
“I’m sure it’s out of their mind now completely,” Deans said.
“They’re Newcastle Jets players now and we’re happy to have them.”
The Jets sit just three points below Western United, but the Green and Black outfit have a further three games in hand.
The match kicks off at 5.05pm on Monday evening at McDonald Jones stadium.
Tickets can be purchased here!
