After joining the Wanderers in January, Ikonomidis' instant A-League impact was cemented through a clinical strike against Wellington Phoenix. 

The 22-year-old, on loan from Serie A club Lazio, made four appearances for the Wanderers throughout January, helping his side to seven points and a resurgence in form.

Quickly becoming a favourite of Josep Gombau, Ikonomidis also notched an assist, and was unlucky to have another goal ruled out for offside.

Ikonomidis joins Bruce Kamau, Daniel Arzani, Joseph Champness and Danny De Silva in a hot race for the prestigious award, with the diversity of attacking talent on offer boding well for future Socceroos squads. 

NAB's Chief Marketing Officer, Andrew Knott, praised the Wanderer for his continued development.

“We congratulate Chris Ikonomidis on his nomination and look forward to watching his development and growth on the football field in the years to come,” Knott said.

“We are also pleased to recognise Chris’ nominated junior club, Cronulla RSL in NSW and hope that our support will help the club to continue developing the game in communities across Australia.”