Mariners gunning for more

Central Coast Mariners are adamant the return of some of their young stars won't mean they take their foot off the peddle when they face Melbourne Heart.

It is all about consolidation as the Central Coast Mariners attempt to keep their eight-game unbeaten run intact against the Melbourne Heart in the Hyundai A-League at Gosford on Friday night.

Graham Arnold's men are flying high in top spot and looking to stay out in front with a strong home performance against the Heart at Bluetongue Sadium.

The Mariners will start firm favourites, especially with Socceroos stars Tomas Rogic and Mathew Ryan returning.

Rogic continued his rapid development while away with the national team and Ryan also impressed in goals.

The return of Rogic means Michael McGlinchey will slide back to his normal midfield role with Rogic playing in behind the strikers.

Making way is Oliver Bozanic who was ruled out following a sickening head clash against the Jets last week. Bozanic spent a night in hospital with concussion but is tipped to be back next week.

Ryan comes back in for Justin Pasfield, who was solid between the sticks in wins over Adelaide and Newcastle.

"I was very happy with how Justin performed," Arnold said.

"The boys that have come in have all done well. With the young boys improving we've created more depth in the squad."

Arnold admits Friday night's contest is a challenge for the Mariners with the Heart coming off a confidence-boosting win over Perth.

"They will be up for it," Arnold said.

The Mariners will be gunning for their fifth home win from five starts in Gosford this campaign.