Football: Arnold fears for Sydney's future if Phoenix replaced

Arnold's main concern is how long Barlow and owner David Traktovenko will hold out if one of their club's biggest fan is sapped by a new franchise. Photo / Getty Images

His chairman feels upset and disrespected and now Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold has expressed grave fears for the future of the foundation A-League club if a southern Sydney team is introduced.

Sky Blues chairman Scott Barlow lashed out at Football Federation Australia, calling on chief executive David Gallop to honour assurances given to club chairmen that new licences "are not on the agenda".

Gallop confirmed on Wednesday they were very much an option should the Wellington Phoenix exit at the end of this season and admitted to looking carefully at Sydney.

Barlow has led the chorus of outrage over the FFA's decision this week not to grant a new 10-year licence to the Phoenix, whose current one expires at the end of this season.

Western Sydney chairman Paul Lederer complained he was also given assurances no new outfits were in the FFA's plans, while Adelaide United chairman Greg Griffin declared the governing body had no regard for the clubs' opinions.

Arnold's main concern is how long Barlow and owner David Traktovenko will hold out if one of their club's biggest fan and talent pools is sapped by a new franchise in the Sutherland Shire.

"My biggest concern at the moment is if Sydney FC is still going to be around. I think that's how big a decision it's going to be," Arnold said yesterday. "I'm just worried even about my job, my family, all the players and their families as well.

Scott Barlow and David Traktovenko will have to make a decision whether to stay or not. If they aren't happy with what's going on, and if they're not happy with a potential Sutherland Shire team and they walk away, what's next?"

Arnold couldn't imagine the league without the Phoenix, whom he said played attractive football.