The struggling Wellington Phoenix have lost a key player and their assistant coach.
Dario Vidosic's stay at the Phoenix was short-lived. Photo: Photosport
Already rooted to the bottom of the A-League ladder, the club and attacker Dario Vidosic and assistant coach and father Rado have mutually agreed to terminate their contracts.
The father-son duo arrived as part of a major off-season overhaul at the Phoenix, which has failed to reap rewards with just one win and three draws after 10 rounds.
Dario Vidosic had been one of the shining lights, scoring four goals.
In a statement confirming the news on Wednesday, general manager David Dome said it was an outcome that enabled the club to move forward and focus upon turning around a disappointing run of results.
"We entered this season with tremendous optimism, on the pedigree of both Darije Kalezić and Rado Vidošić - both title winners, both excellent football thinkers.
"Over recent weeks it's become apparent not everyone has been on the same page and the playing group has begun to be affected by this uncertainty.
"We've put tremendous work this season into progressing the culture at this football club and the players and staff have bought into this.
"We are confident this unity of vision and purpose hold us in good stead to improve performances.
The club thanked both for their services and wished them well for their future endeavours.
The Phoenix said they will announce new player and coaching additions in the coming weeks, once the January transfer window had opened.
Head coach Darije Kalezić and captain Andrew Durante are scheduled to address media on Friday, ahead of their clash against league leaders Sydney FC in Wellington the following day.
