Grant says concentration key

The reigning champion is without a win in the opening four rounds and anything but victory at the Sydney Football Stadium will see the Sky Blues surpass the 2007-2008 campaign as its slowest start in six years of the A-League.

But midfielder Grant insists Sydney is far from hitting the panic button and highly confident of turning things around against an undefeated Adelaide side.

Despite some criticism of coach Vitezslav Lavicka's conservative selections and tactics, Grant believes the side simply needs to focus on playing out the 90 minutes rather than making any drastic changes.

"Our confidence is up there, it's just things aren't going our way to be honest," said Grant, who scored his first A-League goal in last week's 1-1 draw with Central Coast Mariners.

"Just a few little things during the game and our concentration during the game has just dropped a little at times.

"We've just got to keep that consistent I think we'll end up being a great side."

Grant said the playing group had great faith in their Czech coach, who led them to last year's title in his first season in Australia.

"He's a cool character, he doesn't get hot headed very often, so he's just telling us to stay confident," Grant said.

"There's been criticism of our style but we have belief in the style and the system and he's just very confident and keeping our spirits up."

Grant looks certain to retain his place in the starting line-up against the Reds, with captain Terry McFlynn (hamstring) and striker Alex Brosque (ankle) both still sidelined through injury.

The club has shown faith in the 19-year-old by recently re-signing him for another two years and he wants to make the most of his opportunities in the first team.

"I'm happy as Larry I'm getting my chance, it's not under the best circumstances with Tezza out, but if I'm asked to play I'll always put my hand up and give it my all," Grant said.

"It's a great team and it's hard to secure a spot with the players we've got but if I can just put in the back of Vitzeslav's mind that I'm capable to do the job, and hopefully cement (a starting spot) in the future, I'll jump at it and give it my best."

New Brazilian striker Bruno Cazarine is unlikely to feature with visa delays meaning his debut could have to wait until next week's match in Wellington.