Valeri keen for first Melbourne Derby

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Having watched from afar, Melbourne Victory midfielder Carl Valeri says he can’t wait to play in Saturday’s highly anticipated Melbourne Derby.

Speaking after training, Valeri said while there had been plenty of focus on the high-profile recruiting of the crosstown rivals, his side was confident in delivering the goods on Saturday.

“They’re changing structure in their club… the name change, I think it’s fantastic for the league,” Valeri said.

“But as far as Victory goes, we’re not too concerned about what’s going on outside.

“We’ve got to go out there and play with our structure, our structure is our strength.

“We have full confidence in our structure, we trust each other. It’s an advantage we have.”

With a capacity crowd expected for Saturday night’s clash at Etihad Stadium, Valeri said he was expecting an amazing atmosphere – which would be the A-League Derby he had attended in the flesh, as a player or spectator.

“I’ve seen highlights of a few, but never actually been to one,” he said.

“It’s an exciting time for myself and especially the club. The fans, I know they’re pumped, and it’s great to play in front of my family and friends who are coming down to watch.”