Just a couple of years ago James Holland was your typical Aussie teen. His life was all pimples, parties, getting paid out by his mates, pretty girls and PlayStations. Most importantly though, it didn’t feature a professional football contract.

Now, as one of our best young players, he has shunned the carefree lifestyle of his peers and is getting serious.

“As a 16-year-old I didn’t think as much about football, and as deeply about it,” Holland says. “I always wanted to work to play for Australia and do things along those lines, but I suppose I was more worried about what I was going to wear that night to the parties.

"These days I’ve got to be more focused. My dad’s reminded me that now I might be a public figure and I need to always do the right things, because you might be a role model to youngsters. You can’t make the silly mistakes that some footballers have. I try not to make silly decisions outside of football.”

Though just 19, Holland already has three full international caps for Australia and an A-League Championship medal. He’s hit the age and level where the dreaded E-word looms large over his career. Europe: when should he go? He’s already had plenty of advice – some of which the FFA will find difficult to hear.

“Vinny Grella gave me some advice about where I’m at,” Holland says. “I think Arnie [Graham Arnold] had a word to him because we play similar positions.

“He sort of said to me, try to have a good season in the A-League, but try and head overseas when you think you’re ready. If you’re ready within the next year, it’s probably a good time to go.”