It was the group that included Daniel Arzani (“this kid had something else, he can take on five or six players. He’d take the piss out of everything! But was very professional.”).

Physically matured and mentally stronger, Metcalfe’s form in recent weeks along with others suggests “City’s Kids” can play a decisive and fresh part in confirming City’s A-League credentials.

“Being involved in the first team, every day you got to train right, eat right, manage any injuries and sleep properly," Metcalfe said. 

“If you don’t it all catches up with you and you fall behind and everyone else just surges ahead.”

And after debuting this season and getting a Young Socceroos call-up earlier this season, Metcalfe could be one to help push the club through its next era of success. 

Coach Warren Joyce rates his teenage midfielder, but it’s a strong midfield with Riley McGree, Luke Brattan and Rostyn Griffiths all key cogs in Joyce's game plan. 

Metcalfe added: “Seeing my name in the squad is what you want to see, it’s what you train for.

"And last Friday coming on for 35 minutes [in Round 27] that’s a highlight. Playing is the most important thing."

It all starts on Sunday for City with an Elimination Final in Adelaide.

And if he can help Warren Joyce’s men hold up a historic first Championship, Connor Metcalfe and this City side will go down in club folklore.

Just like the Jets side of 2008.