Celeski ready to join Jets formation

Newcastle Jets midfielder Billy Celeski says he’s ready to help the Jets reignite their 2014/15 A-League season against Brisbane Roar on Friday night.

Celeski has not featured for the Jets so far this season with a groin injury keeping the former Melbourne Victory man sidelined since signing with the club in August.

But the 29-year-old says he’s now fully recovered and ready for his fist hit-out in the red and blue.

“I’ll be up for selection this week, last week was touch and go but this week should be fine,” Celeski said.

“I’ve been in full training for nearly two weeks now, there’s still a little bit of soreness there and the physio says I’ll have that for a little bit longer.

“But it’s not going to get any worse, so I’m feeling good.”

Celeski said it’s been a tough start to the season for the Jets with a lot going against them.

“We’ve had a lot of injury interruptions with boys going in and out of the team, and all the travel hasn’t helped,” Celeski said.

“We’ve been unfortunate not to pick up more points than we have, we’ve probably been in three of the four games we’ve played.

“We’re just looking to build on that now and get some wins at home.”

The former Socceroo started his A-League career with the Perth Glory where he made 32 appearances and scored four goals.

Celeski then spent five seasons with Melbourne Victory making 91 appearance and lifting the A-League trophy in 2008/09.

The midfielder arrived at the Jets after short stints playing for Al-Shaab CSC in the United Arab Emirates and Chinese club Liaoning Whowin.

Celeski believes his experience will help the the Jets push further up the table starting with victory over the Roar this weekend, though he expects the Champions to provide a tough test.

“Whether they’re winning games back to back or if they’ve lost a couple on the trot, they’re always a tough team,” Celeski said.

“They’ve been the benchmark for a little while now so they’re definitely going to be coming here to get the three points as well.”

Both teams are still looking for their first victory of the season and Celeski feels that the home ground advantage will allow the Jets to kick-start their season.

“I think being back at Hunter Stadium will help us a great deal as we won’t be on the road and we’ll get a little bit more time at home,” Celeski said.

“It was a good turnout for our first home game against Victory and hopefully we can start winning some games at home and the fans can get right behind us.”