AAP Soccer

Bring on Melbourne derby AL final: Brattan

By AAP Newswire

Melbourne City haven't given up hope of a home A-League final but, if the chips don't fall their way, there's one clash they'd covet in a fortnight's time.

That's a derby against fierce rivals Melbourne Victory - and not because of the atmosphere.

It's because, according to City talisman Luke Brattan, they'd win and charge into the second week of the finals for the fourth time in five years.

"A derby final would be incredible. We've got the mental edge over them this season," Brattan told AAP.

"Every time we've played them, we're up for it and we've put in good performances and the results speak for themselves."

Indeed, City are one of just two teams Victory haven't beaten this season - the other is Wellington, City's opponents on Sunday.

Warren Joyce's side claimed an opening weekend 2-1 derby win notable for a Bruno Fornaroli penalty given after a lengthy VAR delay, and have held Victory to two 1-1 draws since.

Brattan believes City's six-match run with just one defeat shows they are playing their way into the season and could yet peak at the right time.

"We need to keep the momentum going," he said.

"The performances we've had for the last month have been reasonably good, bar the odd one.

"We're really confident."

Central to that is the front three of Jamie Maclaren, Shayon Harrison and Florin Berenguer, which Brattan believes is the A-League's best strike force.

"The more and more they play together, the more they'll read each other's movements. The chemistry between the three has been good," he said.

"All three are very good players. When they're on the same wavelength and everything is clicking, they are the best front three in the league."

As City strive for a maiden grand final appearance, there's remains uncertainty around the club beyond this season.

Coach Warren Joyce's future is up in the air while Brattan's contract is also up.

It's an odd position for the 29-year-old Brattan, coming to the end of a four-year deal with Manchester City after a lengthy tenure at Brisbane Roar.

His title-winning pedigree means he'll be a wanted man when the time comes to make a decision after the season.

"I've got to sort my future out at some point," he said.

"All I know is at the moment I'm a Melbourne City player and I give my all on the weekend.

"Next year is not yet in my mind."