Melbourne City FC can announce goalkeeper Tando Velaphi has been released to pursue an opportunity overseas, with stopper Dean Bouzanis joining the Club from Western Sydney Wanderers as a direct replacement.

Velaphi, 28, departs after featuring 21 times for the Club’s Hyundai A-League side across the past three seasons, while Bouzanis, 25, commences his career with City effective immediately until the conclusion of the Hyundai A-League 2015/16 season.

Velaphi secured an A-League high 9 clean sheets from 19 appearances last season and made an important contribution as the team reached the A-League Semi-Finals in May 2015.

City Head Coach John van't Schip said Velaphi has been a great professional both on and off the pitch for the Club, but understood the player’s desire to pursue another opportunity.

"Since arriving at the Club, Tando has been a model professional and has developed into a mature and talented goalkeeper,” van’t Schip said.



“Tando was a popular figure not only in the change rooms but with the fans and I'm sure they will join with me in wishing Tando all the best for the next challenge in his career.”

Bouzanis commenced his career in Sydney at the New South Wales Institute of Sport (NSWIS) before earning a youth contract with English Premier League outfit Liverpool, where he featured for the under-18s and reserves side.



The talented 'keeper then enjoyed spells with Accrington Stanley, Oldham Athletic and Carlisle United before returning to Australia in 2014, signing with the Wanderers.



Bouzanis will be eligible for selection against his former team in Melbourne City FC’s Round 14 A-League match this Saturday 9 January 2016 at AAMI Park, kick-off 7.30pm.