With the FFA now looking for a fresh face to lead the Socceroos’ quest for World Cup 2010 qualification, it looks as though Arnie will be putting his energies into developing the Under 23 players.

And spending more time being put through his paces by Arnold certainly won’t bring any complaints from Topor-Stanley.

The 22-year-old, who made his competitive Perth debut in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Adelaide United in the Pre-Season Cup, insists Arnold has a great deal to offer youngsters.

Topor-Stanley, who made the closed-season switch to Members Equity Stadium from Sydney FC, said: “Graham Arnold has a massive knowledge of the game and played at the top level.

“He is a really good man-manager and I think we (Olyroos) played our best under him.

“I think the Olyroos will be happy to see him back.”

Not that Topor-Stanley is taking his own international involvement for granted, far from it.

He is just focused on settling into his new surroundings and producing consistent displays for Ron Smith’s outfit.

“I am just trying to get as much game time as possible as we prepare for the new season.”

And while the defender himself sets high standards, he wants his club to also aim high.

He said: “The target has to be a top four finish. I think we’re capable of that and the coach has recruited very well.”

Beyond that, the big prize is a place in the Asian Champions League and Topor-Stanley would love Perth to taste that.

His former club took part in that particular adventure last season before ultimately falling short of a place in the knockout phase.
He said: “It would be fantastic to be part of that again.”

But first thing’s first. Securing enough A-League points to nail that top four spot is the first task.

Versatility is a welcome asset in the modern game and Glory boss Smith can certainly call on Topor Stanley in that regard.

He said: “I have been brought in as a left-back but I can also play in central defence. You just do the job you’re asked to do.”

That versatility is something assistant Glory boss Dave Mitchell noted when the player signed back in April, a period which coincided with Topor-Stanley netting for the Olyroos in an Olympic qualifier against Saudi Arabia.

Mitchell said: “Nikolai is a confident and skilful defender who will give us added flexibility on the left which was an area where we lacked depth last season.”

The switch from Sydney to Perth obviously means greater travels but there are compensations it seems.

He joked: “Well, the weather’s not too bad is it? Yes, obviously there is going to be quite a lot of travel but then I’ve had quite a lot of experience of that with the Olyroos.”