James Musa's Premier League dream is over after the former Phoenix defender was released by Fulham.



The 21-year-old from Whanganui signed a short-term deal with the Cottagers last year after catching the eye playing for New Zealand at the London Olympics.



But his contract expired on June 30 and manager Martin Jol released him along with a raft of players including Australians Mark Schwarzer and Corey Gameiro.



Gameiro joined the Phoenix on loan last season and the striker has since signed with Sydney FC.



Musa was loaned out to Hereford United during his spell with the London club and he didn't play a game for Fulham's first team.



He made three appearances for the Phoenix in 2010-11 but was then released and spent 2011-12 with Team Wellington.



There could potentially be an A-League lifeline with the Phoenix under their new coach Ernie Merrick.



Merrick needs to sign at least five players to round out his squad and he has expressed a desire to promote young Kiwi talent where possible.



Players will be given trial opportunities in coming weeks, while assistant coach Chris Greenacre has been in Turkey scouting at the under-20 World Cup, en route to England to complete his coaching badges.