Soccer: Phoenix defender ruled out

Manny Muscat has been called into the Malta squad. Photo / Getty Images

The Wellington Phoenix will be without one of their most consistent performers for this Sunday's A-League match in Perth.

Fullback Manny Muscat has been called into the Maltese squad for matches against Israel on Thursday and Latvia next Tuesday.

Coach Ricki Herbert says Muscat will miss the Perth match while Jade North should also be on deck in time for the Sydney game.

North is in the Socceroos squad for their games against Switzerland on Friday and Poland next Tuesday.

Despite signing with the club a month ago, North has yet to play for the Phoenix due to his Norwegian club Tromso being unable to find a replacement for him.

- NEWSTALK ZB