Contract standoff over soon

Michael McGlinchey.

Michael McGlinchey could officially be a Phoenix player by the end of this week.

It's become a messy, incredibly drawn out saga but a resolution may not be far away.

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 Central Coast Mariners, despite the ownership situation at the Australian club being unclear.

That decision is 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.

Broadly speaking, there are two possible outcomes - the decision will be reversed and the former Celtic player will be free to play for Wellington, or the appeal will be declined and McGlinchey will have to remain with the club he joined in 2009.

However, the Mariners have recruited players to replace McGlinchey and apparently realise there's little point in trying to force him to return to Australia.

If the situation is resolved positively, it will be a massive fillip for the Phoenix.

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.

The 27-year-old is also coming into his prime as a player and offers versatility in midfield.