Phoenix release under-performing Sarpong

The Wellington Phoenix have cut their losses and terminated the contract of underwhelming Dutch winger Jeffrey Sarpong.

The former AFC Ajax and Real Sociedad has failed to fire in 13 appearances for the A-League club, which included nine starts.

He scored only one goal in that time, failing to fit the billing as a replacement for prolific Australian forward Nathan Burns.

Midway through the season, coach Ernie Merrick admitted the 27-year-old wasn't suited to play as a striker, an area the Phoenix have struggled to fill this season.

Injury has ruled Sarpong out of the last three games - all 3-1 losses as the club's play-off hopes have taken a serious hit.

The Phoenix issued a short statement saying Sarpong will leave Wellington with 10 games remaining in the regular season.

"The Wellington Phoenix and Jeffrey Sarpong have reached a mutual decision to terminate their contract and go their separate ways," the statement said.

"The club and player will be making no further comment at this time."

The 27-year-old is a former Netherlands age group international who had six seasons with Dutch giants Ajax AFC, initially as a youth player.

He then had three seasons with Spanish La Liga club Real Sociedad before signing with second-tier Dutch outfit NAC Breda.