Gold Coast United goalkeeper Scott Higgins will take the opportunity that has presented itself with both hands. The 33-year old will start in the new club's first ever A-League match against Brisbane Roar on Saturday following an injury to first-choice shot-stopper Jess Vanstrattan and he plans to make the position his own despite being on a one-year contract.

"That's the opportunities you want to take, it's one thing training well and stuff, but you've got to go out on game day and play well," he said.

"I live on the Gold Coast, I'd like it to be my long-term home so we'll see what happens on Saturday.

"At this stage I'm only on a one year contract, so I've got to do my job and do the best for the team and see what Miron (Bleiberg, Gold Coast coach) decides to do with me after that.

"It's unlucky for Jess but that's football and these things happen, so I've just got to grab my chance."