Wellington Phoenix captain Lily Alfeld is sure there are a few fans that are keen to see her leave the stands and get back on the pitch.
Lily Alfeld Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Alfeld underwent knee surgery preseason and has missed the first seven rounds of the A-League competition.
At home games at Sky Stadium the keeper can be found up in the stands, yelling out to her team-mates on the field.
Alfeld admits she's had discussions with coach Natalie Lawrence about where she can go without being disturbed, but still being heard.
"I think I'm getting on a lot of peoples nerves in the stands, I do apologise to all those people in the stands for me screaming in their ear," Alfeld said.
"Fortunately a few games in I think most people know who I am.
"It's mentally exhausting being on the sideline as you're living every play and you don't actually have any control over it.
As for coach Natalie Lawrence, she's all for the encouragement that her captain has been able to give from the sidelines.
"She's great, she adds so much... she's such a leader whether she's on the field or not"
It had initially been hoped that Alfeld would only miss three or four rounds, but she is now expected to return to action in their game in Perth on January 15th.
Alfeld was tracking well for an early return but had a minor setback midway through her recovery, which she says was tough mentally.
However with some advise from men's captain Alex Rufer, who has just returned from a long injury break, she's managed to stay positive.
"I definitely have a new appreciation of how amazing it is to get the chance to go out and play.
Lily Alfeld Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The 27 year old spent two days in Auckland for her operation in November and was then straight back with the team
"Without doubt this was the best place for me, within the team environment.
"It can be quite isolating when you're in the gym and everyone else is on the pitch, but I found a way of staying connected with the team."
The skipper also feels she's gained a better perspective from her time on the sidelines watching training.
"It's allowed me to work on my communication with the team because as a goalkeeper you don't get the same connection."
"Also standing with the coaching team has meant I've managed to see a side of the game that I haven't seen before."
The Phoenix are keen to get Alfeld and a couple of other injured players back as they remain winless this season.
