Sydney FC goalkeeper Ivan Necevski is intent on grabbing the gloves on a permanent basis for the Sky Blues. The 29-year old has been second-choice for Sydney in recent times behind Clint Bolton, but turned that around last season when he was often first picked and now under a brand new coach is hoping he can continue that trend.

"I want the No.1 jersey with my name on the back of it," he said.

"I wouldn't say I've served my apprenticeship, because I'm still young [29] in goalkeeper's terms, and you can never stop learning.

"But I worked really hard last year, and again during this off-season, and I've come back a lot fitter than I've ever been.

"The break was good, but now I'm looking forward to getting back into it and having a good year.

"I've got the new one-year contract, I'm happy where I am, happy with the club, happy with the coaching staff. I'm a Sydney boy, and ultimately I'd really like to win a championship with Sydney FC.

"And as long as I work hard, I don't see it being a problem keeping that No.1 spot. I want that spot, and I want to play the whole season. I proved last year what I can do, and hopefully I'll increase the momentum."