A-League newcomers North Queensland Fury have lost another player before the start of their inaugural season with striker Brendon Santalab released from his contract to join Chinese Super League club Chengdu Blades.
The A-League newcomers confirmed on Wednesday the former Sydney FC player would be leaving the club just two weeks out from their debut season.
The Fury had said they would be willing to let Santalab go providing Chengdu came up with an attractive offer, though the details of the deal were not disclosed.
The 26-year-old joins one-time marquee signing Jade North and Brazilian midfielder Felipe in being released before playing a competitive match for North Queensland.
Santalab was recruited by the Fury from Sydney in November after two years with Sydney, where he endured mixed form but scored several spectacular goals.
The blow of the striker’s departure has been softened after the Fury last week signed 21-year-old Australian forward David Williams from Danish club Brondby on a season-long loan.
Are you the ultimate team manager? Pick your own superstar team and go head to head with other football fans for glory and cash prizes on Draftstars. Imagine what you could be buying instead. Set a deposit limit.
Joe Lolley was outstanding for the Sky Blues, scoring a brace as Sydney FC equaled their biggest ever victory.
Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
Even though St.Pauli ultimately lost a high-scoring affair, Jackson Irvine was a standout, as well as scoring a late goal.
Mathew Leckie played a pivotal part in Melbourne City claiming an 8-nil win; playing a role in several of his team's goals.
The loser of the Sydney Derby will be under immense pressure entering the final three matches of the season.
A good performance from Michael Ruhs, scoring twice to beat Macarthur and doubling his season goal tally in the process.
