<
>

Damien Duff released by A-League club Melbourne City FC

Melbourne City FC have released former Chelsea star Damien Duff, the A-League club have announced

Duff, 36, was a key figure in guiding Manchester City's sister club into fifth place on the A-League ladder, scoring one goal and registering five assists in 15 appearances.

Injuries to his calf and ankle in February ended his season early however, and it always seemed likely that City would not extend his one-year deal.

In March, the Republic of Ireland international told Irish media outlet RTE: "The only flight I'll be taking now is back to Dublin. I've enjoyed Australia, but I think Ireland will be my next port of call.

"People are probably sick of me saying it [finishing his career in Ireland] but, yeah I'll be home now in the summer. I'll be home for good then, so I'll be looking for a job, so that's the plan."

Along with Duff, Rob Wielaert, Iain Ramsay, Kew Jaliens and Mate Dugandzic have also been released by the Victorian club as preparations begin in earnest for the 2015-16 A-League season.