The energetic holding midfielder plays for the youth side of top-flight outfit NK Osijek and is

expected to sign a professional deal in the next few weeks.

He qualifies for Croatia through his parents, who are both of Croatian descent, and has also

attracted interest from Czech giants Sparta Prague.

"Steven's work ethic for his age is noticeable," said Joe Walsh, a strength conditioning coach

who has worked with the youngster over a number of years at Fitness Clinic in Five Dock.

"I gave him some real tough stuff to do and he just got on with it."

 Steven's father John said his son had adapted well since moving abroad last year but is

disappointed his career couldn't continue in his homeland.

"We are proud of him playing for Croatia but our first option would've been that he got

selected into the Aussie squad," John said.

"He was born here and we live here but the fact he got selected over there might just mean

these guys move a little bit faster than the Aussies do."

Steven was spotted by another Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb at a football camp in Sydney but

was recommended to Osijek by a coach in Australia.

Although playing under-19 football doesn't rule Steven out of playing for Australia at full

international level, it seems likely he will have to make a choice.

"Because he was born in Australia, he'd love to play for Australia but if they don't come

knocking, what do you do?," said John.