Tombides has had a stellar year with the London club's academy, culminating with a place on the bench for their final EPL game of the season before life in the championship begins next season.

But ahead of that is next month's World Cup in Mexikco.

"It's a big tournament and I'm really looking forward to it," he told the club's website. "No matter how far we go, it'll be a great event and a good experience for us.

"We have got a lot of things to work on, but I'm confident we'll do all right. We won't be rolled over.

"Australians don't lie down. We'll always fight to the end and that might get us the last-minute goal that could take us through."

Despite the senior team's woes, Tombides has had a breakthrough year at West Ham and wasnamed Academy Player of the Year.

"It's been a great season," he said "I'm very happy with my development so far. It's all about getting a chance and taking it and I think I've done that well this season.

"A lot of hard work has gone in behind the scenes. I spend a lot of time in the gym and when I get home I'm really tired. It's all about going to bed and getting some good sleep and coming back the next morning ready to go.

"It does make a big difference, I feel. I might stay around and do a little extra that could make me a bit quicker or a bit stronger. That's what gets you a little bit further in your life.

"I am very surprised. My Dad has noticed a big difference in my strength and it's good to know that the hard work is paying off."

Tombides' highlights of the year were he FA Youth Cup fourth-round clash with Manchester United, scored twice in a 3-2 Barclays Premier Reserve League win over Arsenal and making the bench for the FA Cup fifth-round visit of Burnley.

"It was nice to walk out at Upton Park in the FA Youth Cup against Manchester United," said the Perth-born 17 year old.

"It was a shame we went out when we did because I don't think we deserved to lose that game.

"Every game I play is always a highlight, but the one I'd probably take is scoring two against Arsenal reserves. A lot of first-team players played so it was another good experience for me.

"Being in the squad against Burnley was a very big thing for me. It was bit disappointing not to be in the final squad for the game, but it was still nice to be there and part of all of it.

"Being considered for that event was a proud moment for me.Training for the first team was both exciting and nerve-wracking.

"Once you get into it, you're up and running but at first you're just hoping you can get through the session without making youself look like a bit of a mug!

"The coaching staff and players are very nice and kind to you, so it was good to train with them.

"I just went out there and did the best I could. If I fitted in then great, but I know I still have things to work on."

He added: "My family and friends have always been encouraging me, too. I'm very thankful to them because they're always around to help me out and without them I wouldn't be where I am today.

"I'm very happy with what I've been gifted, but it's up to me what I do with it. I can't just think 'I've made it'. I've still got a long way to go and to work very hard."

Picture courtesy of www.whufc.com