Thurgate, playing as a false No.9, scored the match-winner in a breakthrough 1-0 win over Western United 14 days ago.

The 19-year-old has played the majority of his 21 appearances, including 16 from the bench, in midfield or a wide forward role.

"It was a bit of a different position for me," Thurgate said. "I was fortunate enough to get in the right position and Dimi played a perfect ball and I was happy to get my opportunity and take it.

"Ernie told me all week at training that he had belief in me and that I could do a job there. It was a bit of a new position for me coming deeper, not as a normal No.9, but I really enjoyed it."

Regular striker Abdiel Arroyo missed the Western United game while on duty with Panama and played the final 20 minutes in a 3-0 loss to Mexico in Panama City.

Arroyo and fellow internationals Matt Ridenton (New Zealand) and Bobby Burns (Northern Ireland under-21s) have returned to training and are vying for a place in the starting side against Wanderers at home on Saturday.

Burns has a minor knee issue but trained a full session on Monday.

However, captain Nigel Boogaard (groin) was again restricted to cardio work and Merrick indicated he was doubtful for Saturday.

Western Sydney play a different formation to Western United, which will impact on team selection, especially in the front third.

However, Merrick could not be happier with the performance of Thurgate, who he said caused havoc in an intraclub hit out last Saturday.

"All I can do is keep putting my best foot forward at training," Thurgate said. "The boys are back from international duties. The squad depth was a little thin last week. Those boys are back and are hopefully ready to get back into it again.

"It would be nice to drill down one spot. Ernie keeps playing me in different positions in games and at training.

"I guess it will help me, being a younger player, to get more game time. I can just keep working on my game, whether it be up front or in midfield."