Kawasaki Frontale coach Tsutomu Takahata is remaining cautious of a wounded Melbourne Victory side ahead of tomorrow night's Asian Champions League encounter.

Last week, the J-League club eased past a lacklustre Victory outfit to take out a 4-0 win but Takahata is aware that the Australians have freshened up since their busy schedule and knows they will have a better side on the park at Etihad Stadium.

"Last week we were at home and that made a big difference. We have heard that Melbourne are a very good side on their home ground and we expect a very difficult match on Wednesday," he said.

"We know they didn't play their best last week and we must be mindful of that when approaching this match."

Takahata said despite the fact that North Korean striker Jong Tae-Se was out suspended, he would have his best team ready to go as they strive to secure qualification for the Round of 16.

"We have two players injured and one player suspended, but apart from that I have brought my strongest side to Melbourne," he added.

"We are not that far of second place and that's our immediate goal to get to second. To finish first is much harder, but it's not impossible."