Lavicka facing Sydney selection dilemma - Cole

Sydney FC defender Shannon Cole admits coach Vitezslav Lavicka has a selection dilemma on his hands for Saturday’s Grand Final against the Melbourne Victory.

After injuring his hamstring on international debut for Australia a few weeks ago, Cole has missed the past two finals for the Sky Blues and his replacement, former Victory defender Seb Ryall, he performed well at right-back.

Cole is desperate to figure in Sasturday’s decider one way or another but admits due to the fact that Ryall has looked comfortable in his position, the coach will need to make a big decision.

''I think I've done well in that position in a team that hasn't changed very much but in saying that, Seb Ryall played very well on the weekend against a very good opponent in Paul Ifill,'' Cole said yesterday. ''I guess it's a good thing for the coaching staff to have a selection headache where they've got two options for the same position in the team.

''Obviously every player wants to play and whether it be from the start or if I have to come on at some point during the game, then I plan to make the most of it,'' he added.

Cole had a solid hit-out whilst the rest of the squad had a day off yesterday and said he would be reassessed later in the week.

''It was a bit odd being out there by myself, but it was a really good session and I've pulled up well,'' he said. ''I'll get another check-up on Wednesday and hopefully they'll let me rejoin training as normal.''