Perth Glory attacker Joel Chianese is the odd man out, and he's loving every second of it.
In a Glory squad oozing with international experience, Chianese has been the team's surprise packet in their hot start to the A-League season.
Chianese has been a fringe player for most of his 78-game career with Sydney FC and Glory.
But the 28-year-old has been handed three straight starts this season and has made the most of the chances under new coach Tony Popovic.
Glory's squad features current and former Socceroos such as Matthew Spiranovic, Ivan Franjic, Chris Ikonomidis, Jason Davidson and Neil Kilkenny.
Striker Andy Keogh is a former Republic of Ireland international while Diego Castro is a Spanish star who is one of the best players in the A-League.
On paper, it seemed like Chianese would be lucky just to get a spot on the bench this season.
However, injuries to Castro and Brendon Santalab saw Chianese handed a chance in attack.
"I pretty much trained most of the pre-season as that right wing back position," said Chianese, who has played most of his career in the front third.
"I had to get really fit and change my game, especially defensively.
"And then we picked up a few injuries up front and they saw my movement getting in behind defenders and liked what they saw.
"So pretty much a week leading up to the first game of the season I was thrown up there in attack. It was a massive shock."
Chianese knows he faces a huge battle to stay in the side especially with Castro due back from a hamstring injury in the coming weeks.
The speedster praised the influence of Popovic, who has transformed Glory into a title contender.
"He's probably been the best coach I've had in terms of what we do on the park," Chianese said.
"He just demands the best from everyone. If you do slip up, he's very upfront and he'll pull you into his office and he'll let you know this is how it needs to be."
Glory are riding high following wins over Melbourne Victory and Brisbane Roar.
They'll face another big test on Sunday when they take on Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium.
Australian Associated Press
