In a major boost for our very own National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s competition, former Sydney Olympic defender George Timotheou made his first-grade debut for German Bundesliga outfit Schalke 04 over the weekend.

The 21-year-old, who was snapped up by the German giants in July last year, played a full match in Schalke’s scoreless draw against Stuggart and from all reports had a great debut.

The Canberra born defender has been a regular feature in Schalke’s reserve team and with a number of notable performances, caught the attention of first team coach Huub Stevens who had no hesitation in using Timotheou in the final match of the regular season in Germany.

Timotheou was a formidable force in the NPL NSW Men’s competition under the watchful eye of Sydney Olympic boss Abbas Saad.

His was a huge presence in the Blues back-line. His ability to win any aerial battle as well as his marauding runs were a regular feature that wowed many whilst watching Sydney Olympic during his time at the club.

With Timotheou continunally peaking, it is expected that the defender will hopefully gain more match time in the senior side next season for the German giants whilst gaining the attention of a possible Socceroos call-up from Graham Arnold.