Journeyman Steve Pantelidis hopes his key contribution in defence for Perth Glory this season will help him land a new deal at the A-League club.
Pantelidis was a late addition to the Glory’s squad this season, and was expected to provide minimal back-up in the midfield.
But a glut of injuries in defence opened the door for Pantelidis to cement an uncustomary role at centre back.
The 28-year-old admitted he was initially nervous about the positional switch, but he soon flourished as he formed a solid partnership with Bas van den Brink.
Pantelidis is yet to be offered a new contract extension at the Glory.
But the former Gold Coast and Melbourne Victory midfielder is keen to make Perth his home base for the next couple of years.
“I definitely want to stay here. I don’t really want to go anywhere,” Pantelidis said ahead of tonight’s preliminary final clash with Central Coast at Bluetongue Stadium.