Defenders Nikolai Topor-Stanely and Nigel Boogard have been the cornerstone of the Jets side for several years.

But young centre back Jackson, who has been with the club since 2015, is hoping to force his way into coach Ernie Merrick's calculations in the weeks ahead..

The 24-year-old has played at both left back and right back for Newcastle, including several other positions, but central defence is where he wants to make his name.

"I played not as many games as I would have liked to [last season]," Jackson admitted.

"I want to cement a place and start every game. Hopefully this season round I can play a lot more, help the boys push up the table and get into the finals.

"I prefer to play as a centre back but anywhere on the pitch I'll do a job for the boys. [Nikolai and Nigel] are my two main rivals to get a starting gig. I'll be pushing as hard as I can to get a start."

Jackson made 18 starting appearances last season as the club's Mr Fix It, seven of those coming at left back, five at centre back and one in central midfield.

"I've played a bit of midfield, a bit of left back, a bit of right back so Ernie wants me to be versatile and I'm more than willing to play anywhere," the former Brisbane Roar defender said.

"I've played up front a couple of times, but wherever I'm needed I'll play. I want to play as much as I can. It's frustrating at times but I want to play a year with every game and I think I can do that here."

In January Jackson re-signed with Newcastle until the end of the 2020/21 season and the stopper is open to continuing his career at the club after that contract finishes.

"The set-up, the coaching staff, Lawrie and Joel were really keen to have me, which I respected a lot," he said.

"They saw a big future for me here in Newcastle. I believe that and I want to stay true to Newcastle. If I get a chance, I want to stay and create a career here. "