NEWCASTLE Jets players and staff are still waiting to be paid overdue wages, but coach Branko Culina and captain Michael Bridges insist it is time to put money owed aside and focus on the game against Adelaide on Saturday.
Football Federation Australia announced a $300,000 rescue package for the financially crippled club on Monday after owner Con Constantine failed to pay wages.
Under the arrangement, the federation agreed to cover the two weeks of outstanding entitlements and those for the next fortnight.
Players said yesterday they had not been told when the back pay would be forwarded but were expecting it with the next round of wages, which are due tomorrow. By then it would have been three weeks since their last payment.
"The boys have been asking when it goes in, but it is not really an issue," Bridges said.
"At least we know we are going to be getting it.
"We just have to get on now and focus on the next two games."
Despite uncertainty for the Jets beyond the next two games, Culina said it was crucial the team repaid the faith shown by the governing"We just have to get on now and focus on the next two games."
Despite uncertainty for the Jets beyond the next two games, Culina said it was crucial the team repaid the faith shown by the governing body.
"We as players and coaches are not going to make excuses," he said.
"The time is now for our supporters to show how badly they want a football club in this town, and it is up to us to show what we are capable of on the park. It is as simple as that."
Saturday will be the Jets' second visit to Hindmarsh Stadium, where they opened the season with a scoreless draw.
Since that game, Adelaide have recorded a draw and three wins to move to the top of the table alongside Perth Glory, on 11 points.
The Jets are 10th on three points from three draws.
"The fact we played Adelaide five weeks ago and were clearly the better side gives us that bit of confidence," Culina said.
"The players have to understand . . . when we step out on the park we are basically playing for our futures.
"If we can't be motivated by that, then maybe there should be a question mark over where we go from here.
"But I have no doubts we will rise to the occasion and you will see us climb the ladder."
Bridges has a cork above his left knee but said he was certain to play.
Ruben Zadkovich will miss the match on suspension, because he received a red card in the scoreless draw with Brisbane on Sunday, and with Jobe Wheelhouse (knee) sidelined, it could open the way for Chinese import Zhang Shuo to make his starting debut.
The striker impressed in a 25-minute cameo as a substitute against Brisbane.
Wheelhouse's knee has not responded to treatment and the luckless midfielder will see a specialist in Sydney.