Aloisi facing Roar selection headaches

Selection headaches are mounting for Brisbane Roar coach John Aloisi as he prepares to welcome back striker Jean Carlos Solorzano and Olyroos defender James Donachie for Friday's A-League blockbuster against Sydney FC.

Solorzano (foot) and Donachie (quad) have overcome their injury problems and are set to make their first appearances of the season at Allianz Stadium against the top-of-the-table Sky Blues.

But fitting them into his team looms as a difficult task for Aloisi - for this weekend and beyond.

Young winger Shannon Brady is the obvious candidate to make way for Solorzano, but Donachie's return will likely come at the cost of his Olyroos teammate, left-back Corey Brown, who appears to have lost his starting spot to veteran Shane Stefanutto.

Next week's home game against Perth Glory clashes with an international window, so Aloisi will at least have some tough decisions made for him with Donachie, Brown, star striker Jamie Maclaren and captain Matt McKay all unavailable.

But after that, it's likely Brazilian livewire Henrique (knee) will be ready while wildcard Spanish midfielder Javier Hervas should have built up enough fitness to be in line for an A-League debut.

Then there's the looming return of former Socceroo stopper Luke DeVere (quad), who may find it hard to unseat the fast-improving Daniel Bowles or veteran Jade North.

These are precisely the kind of problems Aloisi wants to have.

"The depth is definitely there," he said.

"I think the players that have had the opportunity to play have done well.

"But it's a long season and we need everyone.

"We know we're going to be losing players throughout the season with national team duty, and there's always injuries and suspensions.

"They know their chance will come and they're working hard so when it does arrive, they're ready."

Veteran goalkeeper Michael Theo (quad) won't travel to Sydney but should be right to return the following week.

When he does Aloisi will face another dilemma - hand the gloves to the most decorated goalkeeper in A-League history or stick by the in-form Jamie Young?

"I think everyone needs to be worried about their spots. We've got a really strong squad," Aloisi said.

"That's what I wanted, players to be fighting for positions."