Perth go into the match as arguably the form side of the competition, having climbed into the top six following a resurgence under new coach Kenny Lowe. They could move to equal fourth with a win over the Wanderers.

Mooy, who has scored two goals in his 36 appearances for the Wanderers, has already been linked with a move to the Newcastle Jets, something that may still eventuate if the Jets can match Heart's offer.

Heart officials refused to comment on the speculation but the Wanderers will be hoping to keep Mooy given Ono's pending departure. The ex-Japanese international has agreed a move to J-League second-division side Consadole Sapporo.

His preferred position is as an attacking midfielder but as Shinji Ono has been there since the club's first game, Mooy has been a victim of circumstances and wants to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

''We've just got to concentrate on our performance. Perth is doing well and Kenny is doing a great job there and I'm pleased for him,'' Popovic said. ''But they're coming to our place here and if we can perform and build on our last home game, if we play to our capabilities then we should really be confident to get the three points.''

Popovic has emphasised all week to his players the importance of punishing their opponents around goal, something they failed to do in their defeats against Adelaide and Melbourne Victory.

''They're doing well defensively certainly but we know we'll get the opportunities,'' Popovic said. ''We were a bit disappointed with our final ball and decision-making against Adelaide where we got in some good areas. So we know that we're good enough to get in the areas regardless of who the opponent is, and if we can get in those areas again I'm confident with the work the boys have done this week we can finish some of those opportunities off.''

After playing three matches in an eight-day stretch, the Wanderers have enjoyed a full week to prepare for this game, which their coach believes will make a significant difference.

''We've had a good week on the training ground, which is nice because we haven't had a full week in a little while,'' Popovic said. ''I think the boys have enjoyed that and spirits are high.''