ROAR teenager Joe Caletti’s patience has been rewarded with an extended first-team run and a likely new deal with the three-time A-League champions.

The diminutive former national under-17 skipper had to bide his time after signing with Brisbane last January last year.

After impressing in his top-flight debut in the Roar’s 6-0 thrashing of Global FC in an AFC Champions League playoff two months ago, Caletti is now an important part of Brisbane’s midfield, particularly in the absence of injured captain Matt McKay.

Joe Caletti has been asked to fill big boots in the absence of Matt McKay. Source: News Limited

Caletti’s agent Buddy Farah was pleased with how talks were progressing with Roar coach John Aloisi and football director Craig Moore.

“I can’t see why we won’t be able to come to an agreement,” said Farah, who said the Roar’s expected retention of coach Aloisi would only heighten the prospect of Caletti knocking back other offers and staying in Brisbane.

“The Aloisi brothers (John and assistant coach Ross) have been really good for Joey’s development. It took him a while to get his chance, but now that he has, you can see why the Roar wanted to sign him.’’

Caletti refused to look too far ahead, believing the key to his future was finishing the current season strongly.

Caletti had to bide his time before getting first team action with the Roar. Source: AAP

“Because I’m getting game time now, if I keep putting in hard work and perform well, that will eventuate into a contract of some sort,” the Sydney product said.

“I’m just focused on playing and performing for me and the team.”

Caletti is comfortable with being asked to fill the boots of McKay, who is out long term with a knee injury.

“It’s a big hole, but I don’t feel any pressure at all,’’ Caletti said. “The coaching staff believes in me and also the senior players have backed me and helped me on the field.’’

The fourth-placed Roar’s bid to host a game in the finals series continues on Sunday night when they meet cellar dwellers Central Coast Mariners at Suncorp Stadium.

“Our weekend win (over Melbourne Victory) was very important, and hopefully because it’s coming to the end of the season, we can continue that form, especially in front our home crowd,” Caletti said.