Gold Coast United defender/midfielder Steve Pantelidis is well aware that he has to work hard every single week just to fit into Miron Bleiberg's matchday squad.

The former Melbourne Victory man has featured in all of United's nine matches so far this season, starting on five occasions, but he is not about to rest on his laurels as competition for spots begins to heat up.

This weekend, Gold Coast travel to Pantelidis' home town of Melbourne to meet the Heart, and the 27-year old knows it is going to be tough to gain a spot in the final 11.

"We have a very good squad and there is always competition for places. If you have a couple of average games there is a good chance you will be on the bench," Pantelidis told tribalfootball.com.

"Miron likes to keep everybody on their toes and has high expectations. Everyone will get a chance this year so it's up to you to perform and keep your spot."

Pantelidis added that always feels pressure at training during the week when he is fighting for a spot but rates it as a positive things as it has everybody striving hard to be the best.

"I never feel I am guaranteed to start every week," he added. "We have a lot of depth and there are a lot of players coming in and doing well.

"It's a good thing because you don't take opportunities for granted and you make sure you train well in order to have a chance of playing on the weekend."

Gold Coast take on the Heart at AAMI Park this Saturday night - kick-off is at 7:00pm.