The unprecedented three year contract is the latest milestone in what’s been a fairy-tale week for Cole, who on Wednesday was included in the extended Socceroos’ squad for Australia’s upcoming World Cup qualifying clash with Qatar.

“My head’s been spinning some days,” he said. “It’s hard just to focus on training sometimes with so many things going on, but this has settled me down a lot having made this decision and having everything finalised.”

The former Sydney Olympic State League player was a man in high demand, having bust onto the scene at the start of the Hyundai A-League season, but he was keen to stay a part of Sydney FC’s successful program.

“I guess I had some decisions to think about and not rush into anything, but I’m happy that I made the right decision,” the 24-year-old explained. “I’d like to think that there is some loyalty in the game and the club gave me a chance which I believe I’ve taken.

“I’m just going to keep doing what I’ve always done before I signed with Sydney and work really hard and try and learn as much as I can. If you’re always improving and putting in the effort you can’t go too wrong.”