Western Sydney Wanderers’ Milos Ninkovic and Sydney FCs Jack Rodwell to face off their last derby

Western Sydney Wanderers’ Milos Ninkovic and Sydney FCs Jack Rodwell have been on both sides of the Sydney derby, now they prepare for what will likely be their last.

Rodwell and Ninkovic at Allianz Stadium ahead of the final derby between the two stars.

With the finish line fast approaching there is a lot more than bragging rights on the line for Wanderers great Milos Ninkovic and Sydney FCs Jack Rodwell this weekend.

While on opposite teams, the stars are no strangers to the pressures of a derby game.

Both have played the match in the other team’s colours during their A-Leagues journey.

For Ninkovic, Saturday’s clash will likely be his last against his former club – unless the two teams go head to head in finals.

“I know that (these) are going to be my last few games, and I’m trying to be the best I can be, and help my teammates to win the games. That’s all I can do now,” Ninkovic said.

Sydney FC are fourth on the ladder, but sit just one point ahead of sixth-placed Western Sydney.

With just the top six teams playing finals and four regular season games left, this Saturday’s derby provides more motivation that comes with this fierce rivalry.

Rodwell said the extra pressure and need to win added an exciting element to the clash.

Rodwell and Ninkovic at Allianz Stadium ahead of the final derby between the two stars.

“The game itself and the day is special but I like the excitement of the week and knowing that you have a big game on Saturday,” Rodwell said.

“I’ve played on both sides of this derby so I can see both fan bases’ point of view – so for me it’s a different derby altogether.

“But it’s not just the derby, there’s points at stake and if you can get a win here it almost guarantees you finals – it isn’t a decider but it is very important.”

Both teams are coming off a loss and are desperate for a win. Rodwell said no matter how good a game plan they had it often was wiped off the whiteboard during a derby.

“It’s a bit cliche but it comes down to passion in these sorts of games,” Rodwell said. “Obviously we are at home and I’d like to think having the fans behind us gives us that extra edge.

“Tactics play a massive role in the game but sometimes in derby games tactics go out the window – it’s just a case of passion and spirit from the lads.”

Originally published as Western Sydney Wanderers’ Milos Ninkovic and Sydney FCs Jack Rodwell to face off their last derby