North Queensland Fury midfielder Osama Malik admits he is loving being a part of the first team.
The 19-year old has toiled to become a Fury regular and got his chance when the squad experienced some injuries but since then has kept his place in Ian Ferguson's line-up which he is delighted about.
"I'm just enjoying every minute," Adelaide-born Malik said.
"It was obviously hard to get a gig at first but unluckily for a few other people I've come in because of injuries that have occurred.
"I'm just relishing the opportunity to play at this level," he added.
"I think I've been a bit lucky...I think I just came in at a good time I don't think that has anything too much to do with me."
As the Fury prepare for an away match with the Newcastle Jets on Sunday, Malik was realistic about his playing chances as some players will be back from injury but says the fact he does what his coach tells him might work in his favour.
"We may have a few guys coming back this week, but hopefully he's (Coach Ian Ferguson) got me in his plans," he added.
"He doesn't want me to do anything too special, just get in there and play simple; but he's been pretty happy with my performances and he's given me a lot of confidence and shown a lot of faith in me."