Wellington Phoenix can confirm an update on player departures and that six players will leave the club after the conclusion of the End of Season Awards this week. It’s been a special season with these players involved and we wish them all the best in their future endeavours.
Nathan Burns, Antony Golec, Justin Gulley, Michal Kopczyński, Ryan Lowry, and Cillian Sheridan will leave at the end of their current contracts, which expire at the end of this week.
Burns, 31, joined at the beginning of the Hyundai A-League 2014/15 season and eventually won the Johnny Warren Medal for his efforts in helping the side to an Elimination Final. The striker returned to the club from the J1 League in the 2017/18 season but due to re-occurring injuries, was unable to regain the form that had led to the 13 goals that won him the award four seasons ago.
Golec, 28, signed from Central Coast Mariners in January and provided vital cover for the backline alongside Andrew Durante and Steven Taylor. One of the centre-back’s highlights was the assist for Roy Krishna against his former club in March.
Gulley, 26, returned to the club for his second stint at Wellington Phoenix back in January, providing back up to Louis Fenton and Liberato Cacace in the full-back positions. His professional manner and hard-working character has endeared him to fans since his debut with the club in 2015.
Kopczyński, 26, who played a major part in this year’s finals appearing side will head back to Legia Warsaw after completing his loan spell at Wellington Phoenix.
Lowry, 25, has been a loyal servant to the club since joining in 2016, making 19 appearances in that time. The defender has been a solid option when called upon and has been a great personality, on and off the field.
Sheridan, 30, made an instant impact in the Hyundai A-League when he was signed from the top league in Poland. The Irish International went on to make 17 appearances, scoring once against Brisbane Roar. He was a fan favourite in his short time at Wellington and will be remembered fondly.
Operations Manager, Shaun Gill thanked the five departing players for their hard work and contributions to the club.
“We want to thank all these players for their time here in Wellington,” Gill said.
“We wish them all the best in their future endeavours.”
