The Central Coast Mariners striker says there is a steely determination in the camp to make a big impression on the world stage.

As the Olyroos prepare for their opening match of the Intercontinental Cup against Croatia tonight, Simon is still trying to take in the speed at which he has gone from playing his football in front of a handful of fans to representing his country in a stadium packed with 47,000 Mexicans.

The former plasterer told au.fourfourtwo.com: "Everything’s just escalated so fast. I’m just really looking forward to the Malaysia tournament. It’s all good experience and being in camp all helps make you a better player, because of all the talent you train with. I go back to the Mariners after these camps very confident. It’s all making me a better player.

“I look back on a year ago and where I was. It’s a bit surreal sometimes when I think I am a professional footballer.

"I went to the Central Coast Lighting to try and get noticed by the Mariners. Yeah, they play in front of about 60. It’s a bit different to playing in front of 47,000 in San Francisco against Mexico. To represent my country for the first time was a pretty special day."

Now Simon is hoping to cement a spot - at both club and international level. He said: "I had a few starts but mostly came off the bench (for the Mariners) last year. I worked my butt off and tried to do as much damage as I could. I was very happy with my season but would like to have added a couple of goals. Hopefully that will come this time."

And then there's the small matter of Beijing to look forward to. But Simon says the mission is far from one of merely enjoying being part of the show.

He said: "Arnie's not thinking like that. You can say the job’s only half done.

"The boys did an awesome job qualifying in a tough group stage. They want to go on and to come home with a medal would be great.

"Arnie has all the confidence in the world in the squad and he definitely believes we can come home with a medal."