Theo fit and in for the long haul at Brisbane Roar

After enduring the most frustrating season of his career due to injury, Brisbane Roar goalkeeper Michael Theo is back and determined to extend his career into his late 30s at least.

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The news out of Roar's 3-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers to kick-off the A-League last night largely revolved around striker Jamie Maclaren's splendid two-goal effort, but at the other end Theo was gradually feeling his way back into the competition.

Theo, the most successful player in A-League history with five championships, improved as the game went on.

His confidence grew and he became commanding in the second half, charging off his line to pluck several dangerous balls out of the air before any of them reached the head of a Wanderers attacker.

Afterwards, 34-year-old Theo said that while it was frustrating to not play many games last season he has been left feeling rejuvenated by the enforced break.

"I fractured my wrist and when I recovered from that I did my groin," Theo said.

"So I only played four games last year, three in the A-League and one Champions League.

"It was something I wasn't used to, because I'd only missed two games in my entire A-League history before that.

"I'd had a good run, so it was frustrating to suddenly have to miss so much football. We were going through a difficult time on the field as well, so it was hard not being able to go out there and help the guys.

"But in saying that I've come back rejuvenated and keen to do well this year and make sure we're heading in the right direction and pressing for the title.

"I feel fresher, both mentally and physically. I had to concentrate on my rehab and having a year out of the game you focus on what you've got and what it means to you.

"Just to be out there again, I'm super pumped, I'm really looking forward to this year and having a good campaign.,"

Theo said he expected to quickly get used again to doing what had previously been routine to him on the field.

"I've only had a month of proper training with the team, but I'm feeling fantastic and I just need a run of games," he said.

"As the game went on I felt more comfortable. It's like riding a bike, to some degree. Once I was out there I started to feel at home.

"I slipped over at one stage in the first half. I was wearing studs, but it still happened. Fortunately, it didn't result in a goal to them. A few guys slipped over out there. The surface can get a bit greasy at night at Parramatta.

"It's never easy for a goalkeeper in that situation, but when it was time to come out and be commanding I did that and relieved the pressure on the defence.

"All the boys dug deep and defended well and weathered the storm we knew was going to come from the Wanderers in the second half. We'll only get better, the same as they will.

"I'm proud of the team's effort and mine as well, because it's been a frustrating 12 months and a lot of hard work to get to this stage.

"I only played two trial games in the pre-season, but I had a solid month at training in terms of fitness. I'm tracking well and it's just a matter of getting that sharpness back now."

Theo said he was planning to continue in the A-League for the next few years at least.

He cited a pair of Australian goalkeepers whose longevity have proven to be an inspiration.

"Prior to last season I had a fantastic run in terms of injuries and I look after myself on and off the field," Theo said.

"If you look after yourself, there's no reason you can't prolong your career.

"We've got great examples of Australian 'keepers continuing to play well into their 40s, with Mark Schwarzer and Ante Covic.

"I don't look at age. It's just a number, to be honest. What matters is how I feel and as long as I'm doing my job I'll continue playing."