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Defender kicks out at Glory infighting

Defender kicks out at Glory infighting

Senior defender Michael Thwaite has described reports of infighting amongst Perth Glory players and coaching staff this season as a “load of bollocks” and says he is still enjoying playing the game despite the club’s horror slide to the foot of the A-League ladder.

Glory are winless in nine matches and sit three points adrift of ninth-placed Melbourne Heart ahead of this week’s tough assignment away to Western Sydney at Pirtek Stadium.

With four games left to play and its finals hopes gone, the Glory playing group has reset its goal for the season and is now aiming to avoid what would be the first wooden spoon in club history.

Thwaite said his mentality and approach to the game hadn’t changed despite the barren run.

“I enjoy every game that I’m in,” Thwaite said.

“Obviously when the results don’t go our way you get a little bit frustrated after the game.

“But, as you can see, the attitude at training is good and it’s always been good throughout the year regardless of what people are saying about infighting or whatever – it’s a load of bollocks.

“It’s just all about winning games.”

Thwaite has struggled with a back injury in recent weeks but moved well at training today and looks set to fill his customary role at centre-back against Western Sydney.

Today’s session was intense, but Thwaite played down suggestions frustration had crept into the squad.

“It’s always intense,” Thwaite said.

“The energy levels have always been good at training and everyone wants to be part of that starting XI this weekend, especially going to Western Sydney. It’s such a great stadium and atmosphere to play at.

“There’s no frustration on the training pitch. Obviously we’ve got GPS units and heart rate monitors. If there’s any hiding out there, obviously we get told about it, so everyone’s just trying to work hard.”

International marquee player William Gallas also trained strongly today despite lingering groin and hamstring issues and looks a likely starter this weekend.