Australia NewsMariners Seek Simon Extension |
EXCLUSIVE: Central Coast Mariners are looking to extend striker Matt Simon's contract rather than being resigned to the youngster's exit.
Coach Lawrie McKinna confirmed to au.fourfourtwo.com today that there has been interest from abroad in Simon but no concrete offers that are simply too good to refuse.
As his squad prepared to jet out for next week's crunch Champions League match against Pohang Steelers, McKinna said the Mariners were not going to stand in the way of players looking to progress but talk and overseas ambitions was one thing, a firm offer was something else.
"Yes, there has been some interest in Matty Simon and it's no secret that some players have ambitions overseas," said McKinna. "They probably think it will boost their World Cup chances but nobody is banging on doors here to leave.
"We are hoping to extend Matty's contract for another year."
Clubs in both South Korea and Norway are believed to have expressed interest in the forward while a club in the MLS has also been linked with a move for him.
Goalkeeper Danny Vukovic and defender Dean Heffernan have also been mentioned as players who could be looking to try their luck overseas but McKinna said neither was presently the subject of a bid or bids from elsewhere.
The Mariners will fly out of Sydney later today to begin preparations for Tuesday's encounter with Pohang Steelers - a must-win clash for McKinna's men.
Nik Mrdja and Paul O'Gray will miss the match through injury while Nigel Boogaard and Matthew Osman are suspended.
McKinna added: "Obviously we have to switch things around a bit but when you have people unavailable then it opens doors for others."
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