Head coach Ernie Merrick has released New Zealand under-20 captain Luke Adams.

Adams, 19, joined the Wellington Phoenix on a one-year contract at the start of the season just ended and made three appearances, one as a substitute.

Merrick said the central defender had worked hard in training, but it had been difficult for him with captain Andrew Durante and Ben Sigmund settled in the centre of defence.

“It wasn-t a lack of talent so far as Luke was concerned; it was lack of game time,” Merrick said.

“He played the first and last league games of the season, and with us having no reserve team there was nowhere for him to get match fitness and experience.

“The lad was really professional and trained well but he needs to play.

“Wherever he goes we will be keeping tabs on him because he is a good footballer and a good person.”