Nick Fitzgerald, right, with Jack Hingert at Brisbane Roar training. Picture: Darren England. Source: The Courier-Mail
BRISBANE coach Mike Mulvey says Nick Fitzgerald remains an integral part of the Roar's first-team plans despite his decision to sign a two-year deal with the Central Coast Mariners.
Fitzgerald, 21 next month, will return to the Mariners - where he started his A-League career - next season, believing he has a better chance of regular top-flight football at the Gosford-based club.
But Mulvey is convinced attacking weapon Fitzgerald remains committed to the Roar cause and will start him tonight when Brisbane take on Newcastle Jets at Hunter Stadium.
"We need all hands on deck . . . he's starting against the Jets," Mulvey said.
"He wants to play and we're all confident of that."
Fitzgerald moved to the Roar from the Mariners in 2010 and has scored three goals in 24 appearances - several off the bench - for the reigning champions.
However, since the departure of former Brisbane coach Ange Postecoglou, Fitzgerald has been frustrated with his lack of opportunities, particularly under Rado Vidosic, who has since been replaced by Mulvey.
"Management decisions are management decisions and I respect that, but I have to look carefully at my own career and believe that I have a lot more to offer," Fitzgerald said.
"Since Mike Mulvey came in he's been very supportive and has given me some time off the bench, which I'm thankful for. But the most important thing for me is to be playing regularly in the starting 11."
Fitzgerald and defender James Donachie have been recalled to Brisbane's starting line-up at the expense of Massimo Murdocca and Matt Jurman. Roar goalkeeper Michael Theo will make his 150th A-League appearance.
English Premier League club Fulham have reportedly joined the race to sign Mariners playmaker Tom Rogic, who is currently training with Celtic.
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