Leijer signed for the Cottagers last summer from Melbourne Victory and has been a regular for the reserve team in his first year in west London.

The 22-year-old has already won one cap for his country but is yet to get a taste of Premier League action, despite being a substitute on a couple of occasions.

However, Fulham second-string manager Billy McKinlay believes Leijer will be ready to make the step up in 2008/9.

McKinlay told the club's official website: "Next season I'll be looking for Adrian to certainly make an impact in the first-team squad.

"He should be aiming to play games for us and certainly contribute to a successful season for the club. He is more than capable of doing that.

"We're really pleased with the way he's come in and adapted to the football in this part of the world.

"In terms of his performances, he's done very well and he's made an impact in the first-team squad by being on the bench a few times.

"Everybody is very happy with him, he's a joy to work with. He comes in, gives it his best and works hard. He's willing to listen and learn and we have high hopes."