With his clearance due on May 5, Barbarouses, 18, is set to debut for Macarthur Rams against ladder leaders Manly United at the Campbelltown Sports stadium in round 11 on May 11.

Barbarouses is likely to be on loan at the Rams till July when he’s set to return to Wellington to continue pre-season with Phoenix. The winger may also possibly force his way into New Zealand’s side for the Beijing Olympics.

“I’m here for some game time. I want to be sharp and ready for the next A-League season. It’s important,” Barbarouses told au.fourfourtwo.com.

Barbarouses was a squad player at Phoenix last season but is now looking to build on an encouraging full debut against the Mariners in round 21, an appearance that showed flashes of why many rave about this fast, skilful wide attacker.

“Ricki [Herbert] has said that he saw that I can compete in the A-league but I need some game time.”

It’s a smart move by the Kiwi boss. At 18, Barbarouses is not going to struggle for fitness but right now he needs games.

And the Wellington flyer likes what he’s seen so far of this second tier league after watching matches and training with the Rams.

“Compared to the NZFC, it’s quicker and technical and all round it’s better,” he noted. “Obviously it’s different when you play. Hopefully I can bring some skill and attacking flair to the league.”

With Manly’s renowned defensive organisation and toughness, the likable Kiwi couldn’t have asked for a tougher introduction to NSW’s elite state league.

As for the A-League, Barbarouses senses something big is happening back home as Phoenix look to build on some huge plusses in season one.

“We’ve signed some quality recruits. This could be our time. We conceded a lot of goals in the final ten minutes of matches.

"But with the new players coming in and some attacking flair too, this could be a big year for Phoenix,” said Barbarouses.

In the meantime, the New Zealander is living with fellow Kiwi Steven Old who’s also signed to the Rams.

And Barbarouses is enjoying being in Sydney, too. His girlfriend has flown over to visit him and they’ve been enjoying the sights of Sydney.

“It’s awesome. It’s very big and so much selection. I went shopping the other day and was out for hours,” said the Phoenix starlet.

Ricki Herbert hopes Barbarouses comes back to Wellington with a bag full of match experience ahead of season four of the A-League.