IF MATT Jurman wants a future at Brisbane Roar beyond this season, he must perform against Melbourne Heart at AAMI Park tomorrow.

"He's playing for a new contract," Roar coach Mike Mulvey told The Courier-Mail last night.

The 23-year-old former Sydney FC defender has struggled for first-team football since Brisbane met the Heart on November 9 at the same venue. The Roar were thrashed 4-1 that night, with Jurman's ordinary performance leading to his axing from the starting side.

At one stage, Jurman was the Roar's fourth-choice central defender but injuries, suspension and departures have led to an opening.

Jurman replaces the ineligible James Donachie from the team that started in Brisbane's 2-1 home win over Wellington Phoenix on Tuesday.

"He needs to step up and put whatever disappointments he's had in the past 10 weeks to the back of his head," Mulvey said. "He needs play for the team and play for himself. He's got his opportunity to continue to be a Roar player. I've got no doubts he'll respond."

Whether Jurman wants to stay in Brisbane beyond this season is doubtful.

He believes he was unfairly made the scapegoat, before the removal of former coach Rado Vidosic, for the Roar's poor early season form.

His chances of gaining a contract elsewhere could depend on his form for the remainder of the season.

"Any player at any given time is playing for their future," Mulvey said.

Jurman received the backing of his skipper and central defensive partner Matt Smith.

"I'm expecting Jurms to make a statement and a claim for his spot back," Smith said.

Adding to the pressure on Jurman tomorrow, he is walking a suspension tightrope.

Having been booked four times this season, he is one yellow card away from a one-week ban. Besart Berisha, Erik Paartalu and Shane Stefanutto are in the same boat.

Meanwhile, Perth Glory have released striker Billy Mehmet, allowing him to join Thai club Bangkok Glass.

Originally published as Jurman must roar to life