Still only 19, the Queensland Roar wide man is back in training with his club, albeit briefly, before he continues with Olyroo preparations.

However, the club's capture of the highly-rated Oar provides coach Frank Farina with a wealth of attacking options on the flank.

Zullo told au.fourfourtwo.com: "Obviously Tommy is still very young but he's come in and done well. He's a very talented player and in a similar mould to me. He's very quick and has a good shot on him.

"I'm confident I can earn my place in the team but it's always good to have competition for places."

Oar has made an early impression at the club, scoring a cracking goal in a 2-1 friendly win over Brisbane Strikers last week.

Zullo accepts he will need to reach the heights of last season and go beyond them if he is to cement that place.

He already knows what he wants to achieve and there is no danger of complacency creeping into his game. He said: "I will keep pushing myself and so will the coaching staff. This season I guess I don't want to be just seen as as the new kid on the block if you like or the promising youngster.

"I have to get out there and be consistent, put a real stamp on things and be dominant out on the pitch. People talk about the second year but I think quality players should be looking to play well regardless of their situation or how long they've been involved."

Both Zullo and Oar are still in their teens and the Roar squad does have a more youthful look about it at this stage. Zullo said: "That's the way Frank seems to be going. We've lost three or four older players and we've got some younger lads in."

As for Brazilian new boy Bruno Mezenga, Zullo said: "You can tell he's a quality player."