Football: Former A-League coach wants Wellington Phoenix dropped from league

Former Adelaide coach John Kosmina wants the Wellington Phoenix dropped from the A-League. Photo / Getty Images.

The Wellington Phoenix's dismal season has drawn the attention of a former A-League coach, who has called for the New Zealand franchise to be dropped from the competition.

Former Sydney and Adelaide coach John Kosmina told Fox Sports he believes it's time to say goodbye to the Wellington battlers, despite Football Federation Australia granting the club a 10-year licence.

"I know that sounds harsh but when the A-League began, it worked. It was something that we needed, it added a bit of variety, it added a bit of colour," Kosmina said.

"But now it's season after season after season where they look like they're going to do something and all of a sudden the wheels fall off badly."

Kosmina's comments came after Wellington were thrashed 4-0 by competition leaders Sydney on Friday.

"The fact is they're not really causing any threats to anyone, I think they're not really doing Australian football any favours."

It is not the first time the Phoenix's place in the A-League has come under scrutiny from across the ditch, but they won't be on the way out any time soon.

In 2016, a four-year extension was granted to the club, through to the end of the 2019-2020 season, with two further extensions of three-years each, though these periods are dependant on factors including improved broadcast rights from New Zealand and greater attendance.

"Now I look at it from our development point of view: take Wellington out and put another Aussie team in, instead. It will benefit our game a lot more."

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