The 35-year-old battled on despite poor health in last Friday's elimination final but was withdrawn from consideration for the meeting with Melbourne Victory early on Sunday by coach John Aloisi.

Aside from the loss of North, Aloisi has enjoyed good fortune on the injury front. Captain Matt McKay, Arana and Jack Hingert have all proved their fitness ahead of the AAMI Park match.

With goalkeeper Michael Theo sidelined, Jamie Young will deputise despite receiving 26 stitches in his arm from an injury sustained from the hook on the goalposts whilst on Asian Champions League duty.

Melbourne Victory, on the other hand, boast a fully fit squad.