Aurelio Vidmar senses he won't have Kai Trewin forever.
But while the talented defender is still in Melbourne City's clutches, he's determined to make every post a winner.
A Socceroos call-up and overseas interest loom for the Canberra-born Trewin, who started his career at the Australian Institute of Sport before heading to Brisbane where he played 105 league games by 23.
The former Olyroo joined City on a three-year deal ahead of this season and has excelled at centre-back, helping City stabilise their campaign and leap to fourth on the A-League Men table.
"Firstly, he's an exceptional person. Secondly, he's going to be an exceptional player," City coach Vidmar said.
"And I don't think this is his last bus stop. To be honest, I expect him to go on to bigger and better things.
"We're just hoping that he can continue his form and for me, to be honest, the Socceroos position shouldn't be too far away because I think he's been one of the most consistent defenders in the league."
Socceroos coach Tony Popovic and assistant Hayden Foxe have been regulars at City games this season and Trewin knows they are watching.
"You can see the players that he's already taken, the younger players that have been doing really well in the A-League," Trewin told AAP.
"It gives you good confidence that if you play a good six months of good, consistent football, you can get a chance in the Socceroos."
Trewin is already on the Socceroos radar - he was on a 50-player long list earlier this year - and reaping the rewards of taking the risk of moving south to City.
"I'm loving living in Melbourne and playing for Melbourne City," he said.
"It's been a good change for me. It was probably time to change it up a little bit for myself.
"Just playing my best every week and winning as many games as I can for Melbourne City is my goal at the moment.
"But I feel like I've started off quite well and just hoping to keep going with some better performances throughout the season."
Trewin will get to test his mettle when City host unbeaten leaders Auckland at AAMI Park on Sunday.
"These are the games as a player you get excited for - the top-of-the-table clashes," he said.
"Auckland are a great team this year. They've got a lot of great players all over the park.
"So yeah, really looking forward to it."
City are still without Marco Tilio, who has had a setback in his hamstring rehabilitation.
Elsewhere, Central Coast host Adelaide on Friday night.
On Saturday, there are four games: Wellington host Macarthur, Sydney FC take on Western United, Western Sydney play Brisbane and Newcastle travel to face Perth.
