Melbourne Victory striker Archie Thompson is happy pre-season is over but is delighted with the results. The all-time A-League leading goal scorer has had one of his best pre-seasons yet and although it was physically and mentally demanding, he is excited about the potential rewards that come from such hard work.

"I've definitely worked hard this season," Thompson said. "I don't know how the guys have actually done it (in past years), so hats off to them.

"Four months ago I thought, 'How are we going to go through this'.

"Ask anyone and the thing they hate is pre-season. But once you've done it and feel fit, you feel great."

The part-time Socceroo added that he was keen to make Pim Verbeek's 2010 World cup squad, hence the dedication to getting his body right.

"I've worked extremely hard because I want to leave no stone unturned to get back in the national team," he added.

"I'll just basically do the best I can do and leave it up to Pim.

"I've put myself in a good position with my fitness, but there's probably 1000 other Aussies doing the same."

Thompson and the Victory kick off their A-League title defence this Thursday night with the season opener against Central Coast Mariners at Etihad Stadium.