The youngster's Greek contract kicked in on July 1 and he will head for Athens in the next few days to meet club officials and sort out his living arrangements.

He cannot wait to get started at his new club but, as Graham Arnold prepares to announce his 18-strong squad for Beijing, he would love to be part of the Olympics first.

Arnold will reveal his roster on Friday and despite Burns's achievements in helping the side reach Beijing, he is taking absolutely nothing for granted.

He told au.fourfourtwo.com today: "Going to the Olympics would be a fantastic experience and a tremendous honour.

"It's a tough group we're in but I'm sure all those who are selected will go there determined to do well for Australia."

Despite all the plaudits and a dream move to Europe, Burns is still taking nothing for granted.

He said: "I wouldn't say I'm confident (about Olympic selection). It's incredibly tough to get a place.

"The coach can only take 18 and when you think three of those places could be over-age players and then there's a couple of goalkeepers, you're really only looking at 13 players.

"I'm sure all the boys are hoping they will get in there and it would be good to come home with a medal."

Burns admits he is still coming to terms with events over the past few months but is loving it.

He said: "Yes, I'm still having to pinch myself a little bit. But I'm really looking forward to the Athens move.

"I think you always have to be looking to push yourself in football and do as much as you can. It's a short career and you have to make the most of it."

Burns was delighted with the welcome he received on his first trip to Athens but admits there's work to be done to fully fit into the Greek life. In answer to 'how's your Greek?' he admitted: "Not that good."