Sounds like the youngsters will be given a good go in the Australia Cup, as Chiefy tries to mirror CCM. Also it was rumoured Weenix want a cheaper team than last season??
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/a-league/132493984/wellington-phoenix-star-reports-back-for-preseason-amid-interest-from-overseas
With imports Zawada, Bozhidar Kraev, David Ball and Scott Wootton locked in, Italiano had previously indicated he would use his only free visa spot to sign a new centre-back.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/a-league/132493984/wellington-phoenix-star-reports-back-for-preseason-amid-interest-from-overseas
With imports Zawada, Bozhidar Kraev, David Ball and Scott Wootton locked in, Italiano had previously indicated he would use his only free visa spot to sign a new centre-back.
However, after promoting academy graduate Kelly-Heald on a record four-year contract, Italiano is now keeping his options open.
The Phoenix still have big holes to fill at central midfield and at left-back and right-back following the departures of All Whites Clayton Lewis and Callan Elliot and the conclusion of Lucas Mauragis’s loan deal.
As well as young gun Kelly-Heald, they have also added defensive midfielder Mohamed Al-Taay and veteran goalkeeper Jack Duncan, both via the Newcastle Jets.
The Phoenix play Queensland NPL club Peninsula Power in the Australia Cup on August 4 but Italiano said he was in no rush to finalise his squad with the A-League Men season still three months away.
He planned to see the round of 32 cup tie to trial some of the club’s academy players.
“My focus is to give these younger players an opportunity and there may be one or two that actually cements their position so I don't need to look elsewhere and it means I can focus more resources into areas I think need to be addressed.”