The Roar's A-League Men tips and predictions: Round 26 - the jostle for finals positions is on in earnest
Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
A-League champions Brisbane Roar have agreed to release captain Matt Smith to Thai first division club Bangkok Glass.
The 32-year-old defender had another 18 months left on his contract with the release effective from Sunday, ensuring he will make his Roar swansong away to Adelaide United on Friday night.
Brisbane football director Ken Stead said the club received a formal offer overnight and agreed to the terms of the release for an undisclosed transfer fee.
“We didn’t want to lose our captain and we are sorry to see Matt leave,” Stead said.
“But we can understand that as this stage of his career he has made a decision he believes is in the best interest of his playing future and his family.
“It is a significant loss, but it creates an opportunity for another player in the squad while the January transfer window is a timely opportunity for the club to strengthen our squad for the challenges ahead.”
English-born Smith made 112 appearances for the Roar after joining ahead of the 2010/11 season and was named captain in August 2012.
He featured in Brisbane’s three championships (2011, 2012 and 2014) and two Premier’s Plate triumphs (2010-11 and 2013-14).
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Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
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