At the age of 36, Diego Castro was close to retirement before recommitting to Perth Glory this season - a campaign that's since seen the Spaniard sign a rather surprising two-year contract extension with the club on the cusp of grand-final success.
The arrival of Tony Popovic has been key in that turnaround with Castro used sparingly at times to ensure the midfielder can step up when needed.
While that strategy has seen Castro score nine goals and pick up five assists across 21 appearances this season, he admits the initial lack of minutes was frustrating but he can now see the wisdom behind the decision.