Phoenix host rivals Adelaide Untied on Saturday after coming from behind to beat Victory 3-2 for their first win over the dual A-League champions in Melbourne.
The Wellington outfit occupy fourth spot on 33 points (plus 12 goal difference), level with second-placed Victory (plus 15) and Adelaide (plus 13), who are both ahead on goal difference.
Merrick, however, is firmly focused on helping Phoenix finish in the top four as his team prepare for Saturday's fixture in Lower Hutt.
"We haven't looked forward to the championship yet," Merrick said after the win at AAMI Park.
"It's just about playing consistent football. The focus is on playing in the finals and if we can, being in the top-four.
"That's what the players have set their objectives for - I'm not going to raise it any higher. Winning the championship is not in our mind at all."
"Adrian is a Melbourne Victory man through and through and has shown great loyalty and service to our club over a long period of time," said coach Kevin Muscat.
Though, Kenny Lowe will no doubt be boosted by last week's late 2-2 draw at home to reigning champions Brisbane Roar.
Meanwhile, Sydney marquee Marc Janko will be looking to continue his rich vein of form when Graham Arnold's men travel to lowly Newcastle Jets on Friday.
