Lucas Neill has been struck down with a calf injury which will force him to miss Sydney FC's clash with Central Coast Mariners this weekend.
The 35-year old Socceroos skipper, who signed with the Sky Blues last month, is expected to be unavailable for Saturday's home meeting with the A-League leaders after missing Thursday's training with a minor calf tear.
Ex-West Ham United, Blackburn Rovers and Everton defender Neill has made two appearances for Sydney - both defeats - and will be hoping to be fit for next weekend's clash with rivals Melbourne Victory.
