The Australian midfielder, who turns 21 on Saturday, spent most of last campaign playing with AZ's Jong side but insists he's gained a lot in his first full season of European football.

"It's been a good year for me personally," Holland told AZTV. "It was my first full season here, so I was getting used to things a bit and getting used to the culture, the weather, the football and everything.

"Looking back it's been good. I've grown a lot as a footballer and as a person as well. Tactically it's a lot different over here compared to in Australian football.

"Obviously over here, they focus a lot more on technique compared to Australia as well, so technically I've improved a lot and tactically I've learned a lot of things compared to what I did in Australia."

Sydney-born Holland, who captained the Young Socceroos at the Under 20s World Cup in Egypt last year, added he felt he was a chance to cap off the season by making Australia's final 23-man World Cup squad.

"I've been in the camp with them a few times and being a Dutch coach they tend to give young boys a chance which also helps my cause as well," he said.

Even if Holland misses out on the World Cup, he remains positive about his future, believing he can break into the AZ first team next season having made the bench a couple of times in the 2009/2010 campaign.

The former Newcastle Jets midfielder explained his goals for the 2010/2011 season with AZ.

"Obviously to make my debut in the first-team and fight for a position," he said.

"Everyday work hard and hopefully I can fight for a position, get on the bench and slowly work my way up."