The 22-year-old was converted into a right back last season when Manny Muscat was banned for three games in December and he went on to make the position his own.

When Muscat did return, it was as a defensive midfielder.

But in Phoenix's opening three games of the 2010/11 season the Maltese international has been preferred at the back, leaving Hearfield relegated to the bench.

He got 18 minutes against Gold Coast United and came on for the last 10 against Brisbane Roar.

"It is frustrating and to be honest, I think I was hard done by," the former age-grade Australian representative said.

"If you look at last year, I didn't do much wrong. But that's football and part of being in a good team."

Hearfield will get a chance to press his starting claims against Perth this Sunday as he is the logical choice to slot in at right back with Muscat on international duty and Jade North's arrival delayed by his commitments with Australia.

Hearfield is hoping for a similar outcome to last season.

"That's what I would like to happen. It's a good opportunity for me and I've got to step up and hopefully I do exactly the same this weekend," he said.

The versatile Australian has also not given up hope of playing in a more attacking position either, particularly if Herbert opts for a back three formation once North arrives.

"I don't really class myself as a defender. I never have," he said. "But when I'm asked to do a job for the team I'll do it, like I did last year.

"I love running at players and I love attacking and that will always be my No.1 preferred position. But wherever the Gaffer asks me to play I'll play."

He has also been stung by suggestions that he is now on the outer at Phoenix.

"Reading a few blogs, a lot of people have got a lot to say about me at the moment," Hearfield said. "'Is Troy getting shown the door? Is Troy doing this or that?' But that's football.

"A lot of people talk and a lot of people that do talk don't know what they are talking about and that's how it is. You have to deal with that.

"It's been tough over the last month not playing and reading stuff like that but you get on with it."