Sydney's Ninkovic cleared to take on Jets

Ninkovic was kept away from the rest of the playing squad earlier in the week after coming down with a cold.

After he returned to training on Friday, coach Steve Corica said the Serbian international was right to take on the Jets at Jubilee Stadium.

Fellow midfielder Paulo Retre also missed training during the week because of illness.

Despite having three games in seven days, including a trip across the ditch to take on Wellington and a blockbuster showdown with Melbourne Victory, Corica said they were being given every chance to play.

"(Ninkovic's) been sick for a couple of days. He's back training today," Corica said.

"Paulo Retre missed yesterday. We'll see how he is today.

"Other than that we've got three games in seven days so we need to rotate the players around, especially the older players to make sure they get enough rest.

"We have fresh players to come in. We want to win all three games we have this week.

"They're right to go now, we'll just see how they go after they pull up after training."

The third-placed Sydney FC sit six points adrift of ladder leaders Perth heading into their clash with the Jets, who are languishing in seventh spot and fighting to keep pace with finals contention.

The Jets have netted just 14 goals this season - the equal least along last-paced Central Coast.

After only conceding two shots on target during Saturday's 2-1 win over Adelaide, the Sky Blues have every right to be bullish about their defence but remain wary of last year's finalists.

The Jets look set to welcome back Joey Champness while fellow striker Ronnie Vargas also returns from suspension.

"I'm looking forward to being back, the team has been playing really well," Champness said.

"We've been working on scoring and moving quick up the pitch. The team morale has been great."

STATS THAT MATTER

* Sydney FC are undefeated in their last eight home games against Newcastle, keeping six clean sheets in that time.

* Alex Brosque has scored more goals against Newcastle Jets (14) than against any other rival side.

Australian Associated Press