Brisbane Roar hopes Stefan Mauk will return for crunch A-League clash with Melbourne City

Brisbane has made a slow start to their A-League season. But coach John Aloisi hopes the return of a key member of his squad can spark the Roar.

Stefan Mauk is recovering from a groin injury. Pic: AAP

BRISBANE Roar attacking midfielder Stefan Mauk will be given until Friday to prove he’s fit enough to take on his former club Melbourne City at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.

Off-season recruit Mauk has missed the Roar’s past two matches with a groin problem but is desperate for a shot at his old teammates as Brisbane bid for their first win of the season.

The Australian under-23 international is set to be named on Thursday in an extended Roar squad.

Brisbane coach John Aloisi is optimistic about Mauk’s chances of returning this weekend.

“We’ll give him until Friday and then make a decision,” Aloisi said.

“We’re keen for him to be involved, and he’s excited about the possibility of playing against City.

“He knows their team well and has been passing on a few hints about what to expect on Saturday.”

Roar coach John Aloisi hopes to regain Stefan Mauk.

Mauk joined the Roar from Melbourne City. Pic: AAP

Aloisi said last weekend’s break for the FIFA international window had come at a good at a good time for the Roar after their slow start to the season.

Brisbane have just three points from four matches.

“The break has given us time to work on things we weren’t doing well enough,” Aloisi said.

“We’re ready for this weekend. The players get a lift from playing against City. It’s been that way since I got here (in 2015). There’s a good rivalry between the clubs.

“There’s a real belief among the players that we’re going to win this game.”

If Mauk is deemed fit enough to start the game, club captain Matt McKay looms as the likely selection casualty.

McKay has started in both matches Mauk has missed after being named among the substitutes for the Roar’s opening two games of the season.