Juan Mata's A-League revival might just be the story the competition needs, while a number of Socceroos veterans' stocks are sliding.

Amad Diallo's disappointment at the failure to rack up a fourth straight win was palpable as the Manchester United star vowed to keep fighting to get the club back where they belong.

Interim manager Martin O'Neill expects to be at Celtic on a short-term basis but would be open to talks over an extended stay after leading the holders to the Premier Sports Cup final.