Mariners axe midfielder Hoole for Phoenix

Central Coast have omitted midfielder Andrew Hoole from their squad to face Wellington, in another setback for the A-League strugglers.

The 25-year-old has made 18 appearances this season for the Mariners, but has been stood down for Saturday's match against with the Phoenix, reportedly for a discipline breach.

The Mariners have refused to confirm the reason for Hoole's omission for the home clash with the sixth-placed Phoenix.

Hoole's reported transgression continues a disappointing campaign for the Gosford club, who sit eight points behind second-bottom Brisbane on the ladder with just one win in 20 matches this season.

A former Newcastle and Sydney FC player, Hoole is off contract in June and his future with the Mariners remains unclear.