He is back on a lean patch, having not found the net since the round 20 match against the Central Coast Mariners — also the last victory for the team.
Apart from notching a number of crucial goals, Huysegems has also performed well in the 'No10' role, playing in a deeper playmaking position, especially when Carlos Hernandez has been absent. He is a popular figure and seen as a model professional; he doesn't drink, stays fit, and is rarely injured.
Imports are always a gamble — and the Phoenix don't have a great track record with overseas attacking players — but Huysegems has adapted to the pace, physicality and travel demands of the A-League extremely well.
However, Huysegems has been guilty of missing several clear opportunities this season, especially during the winless run in the first 10 games of the season. He is also 32 in June — and one of five imports. Kenny Cunningham, Albert Reira, Hernandez and the recently re-signed Roy Krishna are the others. The future of Paul Ifill may also come into the equation, as the club needs to consider if the popular stalwart will return to the field at some stage.
Leo Bertos is another whose future is questioned. After being almost ever-present under Ricki Herbert (he averaged 26 matches over the past four seasons) Bertos has struggled to make an impression in this campaign. Out of action because of a groin injury, the All White veteran has played the full 90 minutes only twice this season and has been used as a second-half replacement on five other occasions.
He remains well-liked by fans but it is uncertain how he fits into Merrick's new system. He is not seen as the fullback that Herbert converted him into and hasn't shown enough to supplant other contenders for the wide roles.
Bertos has given great service to the Phoenix (only five players have managed more than his 127 games for the club) and offers experience but may, like Tony Lochhead last year, find his future elsewhere.
Youngsters Reece Caira, Luke Adams, Lewis Italiano and Josh Brindell-South are among others off contract.
Meanwhile, the Phoenix face another 'must win' game this afternoon against Adelaide in Wellington. Five teams appear to have sewn up play-off positions (Brisbane, Western Sydney, Melbourne Victory, Central Coast and Adelaide) with Newcastle, Sydney and Wellington jousting for the sixth and final spot. The Phoenix trail the Jets and Sydney by four points and, realistically, will need at least seven (and more probably nine points) from their final three games to be in contention for the finals.
