After playing predominantly as an attacker since Ernie Merrick took charge two years ago, Hoffman has been deployed at left back in the past two games, including the 5-1 win over Edgeworth in the FFA Cup.

The 30-year-old is no stranger to a defensive role, having played a large percentage of his 200 A-League games at right back.

What's more, he is happy to play wherever needed.

"Whether I play at fullback or wing, the way we are playing at the moment is pretty aggressive," Hoffman said.

"I still find myself doing a lot of attacking work as a fullback. And when I was up front, you still have to do your defensive work. If you are out wide you almost get a taste of being in the front third and at the back."

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Both Hoffman and right back Matt Millar bombed forward against an Edgeworth outfit which sat deep.

"We were able to press on and be very aggressive in the front third," Hoffman said.

With Johnny Koutroumbis to again deputise in the centre of defence - Nikolai-Topor Stanley, Lachy Jackson and Nigel Boogaard are still working back to full fitness - Hoffman will start at left back in the inaugural Surf City Cup on the Gold Coast.

The Jets meet Brisbane Roar on Sunday and back up against Perth Glory on Tuesday night.

However, they won't get the same latitude to attack down the flanks against A-League opposition.

"Brisbane won't allow us to do that. Perth will be very similar," Hoffman said. "I expect they will have enough quality to go forward. If we do take those risks we will get punished. That's why the trip to the Gold Coast will be extremely important for our preparation.

"Someone like Matty Millar does like to get in the front third and attack non-stop. If I'm on the other side, you have to be aware of that.

"That is a good challenge. I need to be able to adjust and be versatile and get the job done for the team."

Leading the line for the Roar will be former Jets golden boot Roy O'Donovan.

"Roy is a good guy, good player and I'm sure he has added a lot to their side," Hoffman said. "Roy has a good nose for goal and will pounce on errors. If we are slack in our rest-defence and throw too many numbers forward, Roy is very good in transition. He plays on the last line and when a quick counter attack happens and he is in front of goal, he scores a lot of goals.

"We have to be aware of that. It is another test for us. We are in good shape, the new guys have added a lot and we are very hungry to get back where we were two seasons ago."

The matches on the Gold Coast will also give recent arrival Wes Hoolahan a taste of what's ahead in the season proper.

"The new guys have fitted in well and are performing really well," Hoffman said. "It's exciting. There are no egos in the group and the new guys add a lot to our culture. Someone like Wes with his experience ... he showed in the Edgeworth game that he still has plenty of quality to give on and off the park.

"It's exciting to have fresh faces who are contributing so well, so early.

"Brisbane Roar have put themselves at the forefront with their result (2-0 win) against Sydney FC. Sydney are always pretty strong. For Roar to beat them in the FFA Cup has made everyone take notice.

"To be play them first on Sunday will be a good test for us. Then Perth, who obviously had a great season last year, a couple of days later, it will test us physically - playing two games in three days.

"We are also looking forward to the the trip to get away and get to know the new guys as well."