A 'Mata' of revenge - Victory seek derby day redemption

Revenge is on the minds of Melbourne Victory as they face cross-city rivals, Melbourne City, at AAMI Park on Saturday evening.

The two clubs met in last season’s A-League Grand Final with City edging the game 1-0 but in former Spain and Manchester United star, Juan Mata, the hosts have a potential matchwinner in their ranks.

The 38-year-old (above) netted his first goal for the club in the recent win against Perth Glory and that could be a positive sign of things to come for the Big V.

“He's an unbelievable guy. What he has done in this game and how humble and respectful he is, is phenomenal and we should count ourselves lucky in Australia to have someone like that in the A-League,” said captain Jason Davidson.

“He's got the hunger and the will to win, both on and off the pitch, and it's fantastic. If you look at his career and what he's accomplished and the trophies he has won, then that speaks for itself.

“To have longevity like that at the clubs that he's played for is a credit to him and how he's looked after his body but also a credit to his personality. I don't think you'd find anyone out there who has a bad word about him.”

After amassing 23 international caps himself and being part of the 2014 World Cup squad with the Socceroos, Davidson (below) himself is back in navy blue after three years spent playing in Europe and is relishing the battle with City.

“It's super special, everyone involved looks forward to this fixture. It's our home game and a good opportunity to give something back to the fans as well. It’s one that the fans, the club and everyone involved in the game feels. It has a different vibe to it and hopefully it will be a full stadium and it's our opportunity to get revenge for last year,” he said.

“It's good to be back home. I'm a Melbourne boy so to represent this club is something special. For me, I am trying to help the team pick up as many points (as possible) and get it to where it belongs. It's about winning trophies.

“I rewatched the documentary that we did a few years ago and it refreshed what it actually means to play for this club, we have a great fanbase and for me, the best fanbase in the league.”

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