Elrich made a much anticipated return at right fullback in the Jets' 1-0 loss to Perth Glory on Saturday.

It was his first start since the loss to Wellington in extra time in the final last season, which was followed by double groin surgery.

The versatile Ruben Zadkovich had been used on the right side of defence in the Jets opening two games, both draws, as Elrich worked on regaining fitness.

But the explosive No.11 was finally unleashed on Saturday, and was one of the few positives from an otherwise gloomy afternoon in Perth.

Before the delayed start to this campaign, Elrich had appeared in the starting side in 72 consecutive games, going back to round 10 of the 2007-08 season, the year they won the A-League title.

"Now I've got it back I won't be giving it up easy," Elrich said of his starting position.

"Nothing is guaranteed so obviously I have to keep working hard and improve my fitness.

"But to get through 90 minutes was good."

There were glimpses of the Elrich of old before handicapped by groin problems last season.

He made a couple of trademark bursts down the right, linked well with the front men and in defence made good ground to cover.

"The groins felt good," he said.

"Turning and chasing someone down the line or when I had to make a run to receive a pass it felt much easier.

"Even getting back after I had made a run forward, it made a hell of a difference.

"My last proper 90-minute hit-out was against Wellington Phoenix in the finals last season.

"It had been a while so it was good to get through 90 minutes, and hopefully I can keep going."

While trying to win back his place in the run-on side, Elrich has also been observing the Muslim ritual of Ramadan, in which he is required to fast from sunrise to sunset.

Until becoming a full-time professional three years ago, Elrich adhered strictly to his religious beliefs but the physical demands of the A-League, especially on match day, have resulted in a softer stance.

"Obviously match day I don't fast, and depending how I'm going, sometimes the day before the game," Elrich said.

"I try to take as much fluid and food in as possible.

"Training has not been too bad. In winter we break our fast at about 5.45pm, so it is a bit easier."