On the eve of the most anticipated season in the A-League’s short history, the Sydney FC young gun is determined to make good on the promise he first exhibited as a 10-year-old when he starred in a training DVD with David Beckham.

Coach Vitezslav Lavicka has given every indication the 17-year-old attacking midfielder has a crucial role to play in lifting the Sky Blue’s fortunes in Season 7, while Antonis himself feels primed for a breakthrough season.

After living with the tag of the “next Harry Kewell” for the best part of eight years (and returning from his own recent groin problems), Antonis says the possibility of lining up against the Socceroo icon in Sydney’s blockbuster season opener against Melbourne Victory is “massive”.

“I feel physically and mentally that I’m in the right place and I think this is going to be a big season for me,” he said. “I’ve got quality players and coaches to support me so I think this is a big year.”

Antonis has only rejoined the harboursiders at the tail-end of the preseason build-up following an injury lay-off, but there was enough clever interplay in a recent 2-2 draw against Perth Glory to show glimpses of his class.

Given the hype that follows his every move Sydney’s No 17 remains remarkably level-headed about his celebrity, knowing the real test will come when he crosses the white line in the season proper.

“There have been a couple [of articles] lately,” he said of the continuing media fascination with his progress. “It’s a weird feeling really. You think – is that me? But it’s pretty exciting. I know I’ve just got to stay focussed, concentrate on football and let my football do the talking.

“I know it’s about being consistent and creating chances. I wasn’t too happy with my performance [against Perth]. I know I can do better, but I think I did all right for my second game back from injury.”

The good news is he won’t have to look far for inspiration as Sydney digs deep during the season ahead. Childhood heroes from Sydney Olympic days - Nicky Carle and Brett Emerton – line up alongside him on the training paddock while at home a framed shirt from “family friend” Tim Cahill testifies to the rarefied circles in which the young footballer moves.

Of course all the inspiration in the world can’t replace a lack of game time and in his first season for the Sky Blues the one-time Everton target managed a paltry 187 minutes on the park.

Compared with that other teen sensation and good mate Mustafa Amini, who notched up 916 minutes and 11 starts for the Central Coast Mariners, it’s easy to see why Sydney FC fans are itching to see more of their own wunderkind.

Antonis is confident the opportunities will come. Reflecting on life’s setbacks – such as the blocked move to the blue half of Merseyside at the age of 14 – he gives the impression that things have a way of working themselves out.

“It could have been a bit (disappointing) but then I was picked up by the AIS and I got to play for Sydney FC,” he said. “Now I just want to concentrate on playing well here.”

Terry’s take on football:
Secret to success: Being professional, skilful on the ball and a good all-rounder
Career highlight: Under 20 World Cup
Pick of the A-League young guns: Mustafa Amini (Central Coast Mariners), Oliver Bozanic (Central Coast Mariners) and Scott Jamieson (Sydney FC)
Plan B: Professional trainer