The independent arbitrator in the contract dispute regarding Central Coast Mariners FC, Wellington Phoenix FC, Professional Footballers Australia (PFA), and Michael McGlinchey this afternoon ruled that McGlinchey remains rightfully contracted to Central Coast Mariners FC Pty Ltd – the company which holds the Central Coast Mariners license to compete in the Hyundai A-League.

Central Coast Mariners FC acknowledges Wellington Phoenix FC’s communications this evening stating their intention to seek legal advice regarding the independent arbitrator’s decision.



However, the Mariners find Wellington Phoenix FC’s statement regarding “whether or not McGlinchey and other players have been, and are actually contracted to, the legal entity that holds the license for the Central Coast Mariners to play in the Hyundai A-league” as unnecessary and unhelpful.



The Mariners remain committed to open and transparent dialogue with Football Federation Australia (FFA) and Wellington Phoenix FC regarding all matters.



Central Coast Mariners also note public comments made by PFA Chief Executive, Mr Adam Vivian, regarding the independent arbitrator’s decision this afternoon.



Central Coast Mariners Chairman, Mr Michael Charlesworth, thanked Mr Peter Kite SC, the independent arbitrator in the McGlinchey case, for his decision today.



Charlesworth said that despite the fresh comments made by Wellington Phoenix FC and the PFA, Mariners management remains steadfast in their belief that McGlinchey is rightfully contracted to the Club, and that that will be proven to be correct again in any further legal proceedings.



“I’m not convinced that the PFA are now acting, as they should, in the best interests of Michael McGlinchey, the Clubs, or the Hyundai A-League,” Mr Charlesworth said.



