Phoenix striker Chris Greenacre says Brisbane Roar's slump shows anyone can win football's A-League.
The defending champions were rampant, but injuries to a couple of key players, including midfield maestro Thomas Broich, coincided with the loss of five straight games before they beat Melbourne Victory over the weekend.
"I think the Brisbane situation has given everybody extra confidence, an extra lift," Greenacre said.
"Everyone thought they had walked away with the league, now people are overtaking them and that's possible for us. We've got two home games so hopefully ... we can put on a couple of good performances and put ourselves right in there."
The Phoenix host Sydney FC tomorrow before struggling Perth Glory come to town for a Sunday afternoon showdown. Wellington will want to make the most of home comforts as they bid to bounce back from their disappointing 2-0 loss to Adelaide on Friday night.
Sydney travel across the Tasman after being hammered 4-0 at home by the Heart last week, and Perth played out a 1-1 draw with Newcastle on New Year's Eve.
The Phoenix will welcome back Paul Ifill from a groin injury. He should slot into the starting line-up, but will not be expected to play 90 minutes twice in five days. His attacking spark has been missed, although the Phoenix won three of their past five matches with Brazilian winger Daniel and Spanish midfielder Dani Sanchez producing their share of magic.