Socceroo Velupillay can step up for Victory: coach

Coach Arthur Diles has laid down the challenge to star winger Nishan Velupillay to lead the charge as Melbourne Victory attempt to seize control of their A-League Men season.

Velupillay's hot early-season form earned him a Socceroos debut, but he suffered an ankle injury against Saudi Arabia in November.

He returned in late December and has gradually built fitness, but started Victory's past two games and scored in a 2-0 win against Perth Glory.

"Nish is doing really well at the moment," Diles said.

"Probably took a little bit longer (for him to recover) than we were hoping for and what we would have liked.

"But in the end, we got there and the most important thing is that he now stays fit and healthy. Because a fit and healthy Nish makes Melbourne Victory stronger."

Velupillay, 23, is crucial to ensuring third-placed Victory maintain their uptick, as he attempts to push for a Socceroos recall ahead of World Cup qualifiers in March and June.

It also keeps the heat on Daniel Arzani and Reno Piscopo to show they can take a starting spot off him.

"He should have that responsibility on his shoulders," Diles said.

"But he also should be thinking 'I'm looking over my shoulder, and there's some really talented players that are waiting in the wings to take my spot as well within our club.'

"So that's really good from a competition for places point of view. That's what challenges our players every day to be better and to make the most of their opportunities.

"He's doing well at the moment, and the others are chomping at the bit, wanting to play as well."

Victory take on 11th-placed Newcastle at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday.

Former interim Diles, who experienced a six-game winless run before wins against Sydney FC and Perth, felt the tide was starting to turn.

"We're not where we need to be but we're improving and that's the most important thing right now," he said.

"We know it's a really difficult match this week in Newcastle.

"I don't think the ladder is kind enough to Newcastle, compared to where they probably could be. They've got a lot of good players.

"So it's a tricky one this week, and we're ready for that."

Elsewhere, Adelaide host Melbourne City on Friday before Perth take on Central Coast.

Sydney FC and Western Sydney face off in Saturday night's derby before Macarthur take on Western United on Sunday.