In your mid-twenties, you have followed the path that many aspiring footballers do, by starting your career in Australia before heading to Europe. Let's talk about your early playing career in Australia.
All my junior football was in Victoria. At the age of nine I began my career with North Glenroy, where I stayed for three years before continuing on to Meadow Park, North Coburg, Fawkner (my first year as a striker scoring 36 goals in the one season) and then Heidelberg United for two years.  I also spent some time training with the European Football Institute (E.F.I), before progressing to Northcote City, Richmond Eagles, VPL with Frankston Pines then back to Northcote City where I can say was by far my most enjoyable season professionally.

You decided to chase the European dream. How did that come about and walk us through the club career.
I guess I needed to be surrounded by players and clubs who lived and breathed football as much as I did. I always held football above all, which comes with a lot of sacrifices of course. While at Northcote City and E.F.I, opportunities came to travel to England for a few games. While there I had a bit of interest from several clubs but decided to return home to finish year 12. While playing a state league game for Northcote City, I got approached by a scout who later arranged for me to trial at Derby County. I immediately fell in love with the standards and passion for football in Europe, from that day onwards that I said football is the only way. How I ended up playing in Greece is with much thanks to head coach of Northcote City then John Kanesoulis.  Both John and my brother spent time to get me in great form before passing me over to Nick Papas, a former footballer in Australia now living in Greece. We went to trial with Veria.fc (2nd division) and a week later had signed my first professional European contract.

You spent 2010/11 at Pierikos in the second tier in Greece. Describe the standard of that league and perhaps some comparisons to Australia.
Second Division I can say is a physically demanding league with a lot of emphasis placed on tactical knowledge. Each session begins with a 45 minute tutorial on the opposition’s tactics and how we will approach them come game time. The level of fitness too has to be of a high standard (sprint times, vo2max). I think it would be unfair to compare it to the A- League only because I haven’t seen the standard of football.

The club finished mid table and maintained their status in the football league. After transferring in the off-season, you managed to break in there and make over 25 appearances. What is your role at Pierikos and how do you rate your last season on a personal level.
At club level I must say we were very unfortunate not to make the playoffs, this year was very tight in our league, but none the less we're satisfied with our result. I came to Pierikos as a "coaches choice" right/left wing. This was a big step up but felt as if I was ready for the challenge after a previous successful season with Nikh Volou. My first opportunities were given as a substitute, continuously adding a new dimension and attacking force to the team. I continued to work hard and fight for the position up until I got my opportunity to start off as a centre forward . Personally it was a very successful season, both statistically and performance wise (26 appearances) creating a lot of exposure for myself within Greece and neighbouring countries.

You are currently on a break between seasons. Firstly, many would assume being in Greece makes picking a holiday destination quite easy given a choice of a European summer or Australian winter?
I think in general the majority of people prefer summers over winters, and being in Europe makes it just that easier of a decision to make with all the beautiful islands surrounding us. Of course if I had more time in off-season I would travel home to see the family, after all its been 5 1/2 years since I’ve been home, at the end of every season I totally rest for 12 days, then continue training with the clubs trainer.

What can you tell us about your plans for 2011/12 and give us a glimpse of your club aspirations for the future. Will Australia get a look in at some point?
At this point I believe remaining at Pierikos for another season will help me greatly for the future, my goal is to play outstanding football with statistics (goals assists and games). Another positive season will definitely lead to the Greece Super League or even a move to Bundesliga.2 (Germany) as I have already had discussions with some German based clubs. I’ve placed a huge amount of hard work to be in Europe for 5 1/2 years, but I would consider a serious offer from Australia, after all there’s no place like home.

Representative football is a pinnacle for many footballers. Throughout your career, what honours have you received? Naturally a Socceroos call up would be an ambition for you in the future. What do you see as the stepping stones to make that a reality?
To be honest, although every year as a junior I was invited to play with the Victorian representatives, I was unable to attend training sessions which made it hard to move onto better things that Australian football offered (VIS,AIS , Joeys,Olyroos) . To represent your country in any sport is an honour and validation for any athlete. For a long time it seemed as a dream, if my football success continues then I might just be closing the gap to achieving a milestone with wearing the green and gold. I do believe second division players should get a look into as it a highly respected league in Europe.

Now on the lighter side. A few quick fire questions;

What are your fondest football memories?
Winning league titles as a junior, leagues top goal scorer with Fawkner. This year I have fond memories of my first goal for Pierikos and in second division, subbed on the 87th min and managed to score in the 91st minute to seal the win. Finally it’s an honour playing a long side and having met big named European football internationals, and of course a long side NSL player legends like Peter Tsolakis, Ileigh Tsoumerkis, Alex Gymnopoulos and many more

Any special team-mates that have gone on to become big names?
Ersan Gulum - team-mates at North Coburg now playing in Turkey, proud for him and his progress. Tony Hatzis - team-mates last year, Tony having played with Adelaide United in the A-League. I’m sure there are many others but have lost track of their progress.

Who has been your most influential manager/coach?
I have had many influential coaches in the past, to outline one would be unfair. I learnt and gained wisdom from each and every coach, it is important to value their opinions. My most influential coach has always been my father in the stands alongside my brother who were continuously correcting my game. My family and relatives offered me huge support whilst playing in Australia,
My current form is mainly due to Nick Papas who is always trying to get the best out of me, every single day.

Australia are in both the U17 and U20 World Cups this summer. Any chance of seeing that on TV in Greece??
Australia doesn’t get a huge amount of coverage but when they do it’s always good to see and hear that the Aussies are doing well.