Mitchell Duke will cut down on sugar and caffeine after setting himself the target of 10 A-League Men goals in a bid to lock down a spot in the Socceroos' World Cup squad.
After five seasons in Japan, Duke has linked up with Macarthur until the end of the current ALM season as he aims to stamp his ticket to the US for this year's World Cup.
The 35-year-old came off the bench in last week's draw with the Central Coast Mariners and is expected to up his workload in Saturday's home clash with Melbourne City.
Duke was an ever present under Graham Arnold, but has had to fight for the chance to lead the line under Tony Popovic.
"I want to hit 10 goals and I don't think that's too unrealistic," Duke told AAP.
"If I hit that target I think that would put me in good stead to get selected for the World Cup.
"The number tally is not massive in the top goalscorer standings right now, I think it's only six goals.
"It's easier said than done of course, but when I get to peak condition I think everyone will see what I can do."
Macarthur's Asian Champions League Two campaign will also give Duke an extra chance to prove his quality to Popovic.
But Duke is aware that performances alone won't convince Popovic he's worthy of World Cup selection.
The unwritten motto of Popovic's Socceroos reign has been "elite standards", and Duke knows he must be doing everything right off the field to ensure he's part of the coach's plans.
"For me everything has to be in moderation, and I've learned that I have to cut stuff out that's not good for you, like sugars," Duke said.
"Not having coffee too close to bedtime so you can have a better sleep.
"Sleep and diet is massive in making sure you can perform at your best."
What may also work in Duke's favour is that no striker is kicking down the door to make themselves a must-pick under Popovic, except for Mohamed Toure of Danish club Randers.
"I'm pretty low-maintenance and as long as I'm ticking the boxes, passing the test in an athletic sense and performing well, I think I will always have a chance of being selected," Duke said.
"I have taken my opportunities when I've been given them. My last start for the Socceroos I scored and got an assist against Saudi to help us qualify for the World Cup.
"I'm hoping that's still in his head and that he knows he can trust me if he gives me a chance."
