Melbourne Victory youth squad captain Mathew Theodore is set to make his A-League debut this weekend. The 19-year old midfielder will be given an opportunity against top of the table Adelaide United in what some may see as a baptism of fire, given the Reds' recent form. Theodore will replace the injured Carlos Hernandez and coach Ernie Merrick believes he has the ability to compete well in the senior line-up. "He's a very good young talent," Merrick told the World Game. "He has played in the national under-20s. He's a very composed young man, he's very fit. "He'll be on the bench and there's a good chance he'll get a run because he knows how to create goals and set up opportunities."