Daniel wants Phoenix start

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Wellington Phoenix midfielder Daniel is hoping a solid 30 minutes in the loss to Melbourne Victory last Sunday will be enough to get him a start against Newcastle Jets on Friday night.

The Brazilian has only played a bit part so far this Hyundai A-League campaign, confined to the bench where he spent four games without even getting on the pitch.

But his accuracy getting the ball into the box and his willingness to move the ball was clear at AAMI Park and he linked well in midfield with Spaniard Dani Sanchez which could provide the attacking creativity the Phoenix lack at times without Paul Ifill.

Ifill is still doubtful with a groin injury, while Nicky Ward has definitely been ruled out of Friday's match with concussion after the nasty head clash with Petar Franjic which forced him from the pitch against Victory last week.

Daniel is keen for coach Ricki Herbert to give him a start, which would be his first since Round 6 against Brisbane Roar.

"It is the first time in my five years here that I have had four games on the bench and not got on the field, apart from the minute or so against Perth when Lochie (Tony Lochhead) got injured," Daniel said.

"Of course I wasn't happy, and it was very frustrating, but I respect Ricki and the decisions he has to make."

"All I can do is train hard and if I do get an opportunity show what I can do."

"I want to play and when I was called upon in Melbourne I was raring to go."

The Phoenix have slipped to sixth following their 3-1 loss to Victory but have a good history at home against the Jets who have lost on their previous seven visits.

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