A-League clubs unite over Phoenix move

A-LEAGUE CLUBS UNITED OVER WELLINGTON SUPPORT

Not a single A-League club has come out in support for Football Federation Australia's move to banish Wellington Phoenix from the A-League.

Adelaide United

"Every chairman I have spoken to is absolutely and resolutely behind maintaining Wellington in the competition. It is a well-run club with the best chairman in the A-League. And if this move is in some way linked to facilitating a new franchise in Sutherland, then it is wrong and I oppose it," - Greg Griffin, chairman and owner.

Brisbane Roar

"Our focus is to continue to build and strengthen our sport and our club throughout Brisbane, Queensland and Australia," David Pourre, interim chief executive.

Central Coast Mariners

"Why kick out an established club that's well run financially and has great sponsors? They have a passionate chairman in Rob Morrison - he has invested a load of money and time and I think he is being treated pretty poorly."

"There is a problem that they don't generate much income through their TV rights and while there may be some logic behind FFA's decisions, I don't agree with them," Mike Charlesworth, owner.

Melbourne City

"I think Wellington Phoenix has a good team, it would be very sad if those players or the club would not be able to play. For the football in New Zealand it's something that's hard to take because even if you look now at their Under 17s, they're doing well. The competition should grow so if you take away a team it doesn't mean that you're growing," John van `t Schip, coach.

Sydney FC

"They are a professionally run and financially stable club and they deserve to be treated with more respect than they are currently," - Scott Barlow, chairman.

Perth Glory

"I think I speak for all A-League owners when I say I am extremely disappointed for Wellington, given that it's my understanding there were assurances that they would be in there for the next five years, until 2020 ... the decision has come as a shock to all of us," Tony Sage, owner.

Western Sydney Wanderers

"I'd be disappointed if it happened. Maybe five or more years down the track but definitely not now.

"It (a thid team in the Sydney region) would absolutely hurt Sydney FC. Phoenix? I dont understand why they were not given a 10-year licence," Paul Lederer, owner.

Melbourne Victory and Newcastle Jets have declined comment over the matter.