Football: Mariners set McGlinchey free to work his wonders with Phoenix

Michael McGlinchey. Photo / Greg Bowker

Michael McGlinchey is finally free to join the Wellington Phoenix after his former club the Central Coast Mariners cut their losses last night.

The All Whites midfielder first linked with the Phoenix in June but has been unable to play an official match with them, as his contractual status has been under dispute.

Two weeks ago, an independent arbitrator ruled that McGlinchey remained contracted to the Mariners, despite the ownership situation at the Australian club being unclear.

That decision was under appeal, with the Professional Footballers' Association presenting a case that will be heard by a three-man panel, including a former A-League player and an FFA representative, who will make a binding decision.

However last night Mariners coach Phil Moss told the Sydney Morning Herald that they had decided to let McGlinchey go.

"Obviously we have a very special culture in the Mariners and that culture doesn't allow for anyone that doesn't want to be here. Nor am I the type of coach that caters for players who don't want to be here," Moss told the Australian newspaper.

"We had some great times with Mikey at the club but he made it clear to us he wanted to leave, under different financial terms." The decision is a massive fillip for the Phoenix.

Wellington Phoenix General Manager David Dome welcomed the agreement and said a contract between McGlinchey and the Phoenix had been sent to the FFA for ratification.

"Following on from the announcement last night from the Central Coast Mariners on a mutual termination with Michael McGlinchey, the Wellington Phoenix has submitted a contract for the player which is subject to approval by FFA and FIFA," Dome said.

McGlinchey is the creative midfielder the team desperately need - he's like Carlos Hernandez but without the baggage - and has consistently been at the top of the A-League assists charts in recent seasons.

- Staff reporter