Newcastle Jets striker Roy O'Donovan is prepared to play the role of pantomime villain when he makes his long-awaited return from suspension in no less an occasion than the F3 Derby.
Irish striker O'Donovan has been sidelined since being sent off in last season's Grand Final defeat to Melbourne Victory.
The 33-year-old is available again this weekend and could be thrown straight back into the action against his former club.
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O'Donovan is aware he'll be the centre of attention at Central Coast Stadium.
"It's great for the media and everybody involved. It's a great script," O'Donovan said.
"To be honest it wouldn't matter to me if I was playing a local team in a dog park.
"I just want to get back playing, I want to put everything behind me now and just play football.
"I've been trying to be the best team-mate I can be while I haven't been playing. But this is what it's all about. I can't wait to get going again."
O'Donovan rocketed to the top of the enemy list for many Mariners fans upon swapping Gosford for the Hunter in 2017.
He notched five times in just two meetings with his ex-employers last season and predicted plenty of spice come Sunday.
"It's definitely a passionate affair," he said.
"I think last year it really ignited, the fact I came up the road and the Mariners had somebody to hate more than usual. That certainly helped the feud.
"I think in general it's always been feisty with a lot of atmosphere and a lot of passion."
