His side was knocked out in the first week of the finals last season after losing to Newcastle in a penalty shootout, but Bleiberg says they are a better side this time around.

"At this stage last year we were not even close to what we are now," he told the Gold Coast Bulletin.

"Now we are a team who tries to do better. I think we will be a lot better this year but I don't know if that will translate into a better position on the ladder because the other sides may have improved also."

United is leaving for an eight-day training camp in Noumea, including two friendly games against New Caledonia.

Bleiberg is ready to intensify the rivalry with the Brisbane Roar up north, a team they have beaten in all three meetings and open the season against on August 7 at Skilled Park.

He added: "Is it a big game? Big is the first round against the Brisbane Roar."

Defender Michael Thwaite will take up the captaincy in Noumea with World Cup stars Jason Culina and Shane Smeltz away on international duty.

According former Socceroo Thwaite, United needs consistency and a greater focus on defensive duties.

"Last year we were going away and attacking too much but we're looking this year to be a lot more compact in defence and having a quicker transition from attack and defence when we change," he said.

"The consistency this season needs to be a lot better because we were having some really good results followed by some really bad results.

"And if we can get some consistency, and consistency with our starting 11 that will help also."