Newcastle Jets have sacked coach Branko Culina, effective immediately, and will appeal to Football Federation Australia to have his son Jason's contract scrapped as well.
Statements from the club suggest Branko Culina may have been given his marching orders for signing his son Jason to the club with the knowledge that he was unfit to play this season.
The suprise axing came only hours after the the coach attended the A-League's official season launch in Sydney on Tuesday.
Jets' Chief Executive Officer Robbie Middleby said: “The decision to terminate the contracts was made after a long deliberation by the Newcastle Jets' Advisory Board.”
The 31-year-old Socceroo signed on with the Jet as the club's marquee player but has been ruled out for the season with a serious knee injury.
“Jason's injury could mean the Jets are without their marquee player for up to three seasons – not a good result for the club, supporters, sponsors and players,” said Jets owner Nathan Tinkler in a media statement released on Tuesday.
Tinker failed to reveal the reasons behind Culina's termination but was confident the decision would not hurt the club.
"While I acknowledge the difficult timing of this announcement, I am confident in the character of the Jets' players and staff who will quickly put this matter behind them and enjoy a great season.”
Jets captain Jobe Wheelhouse thanked Culina for his "contribution".
“We thank Branko for his contribution to the club and wish him all the best for the future,” he said.
“We are professional footballers and after our long pre-season it is important we remain focused on Saturday's game."
The club's National Youth League coach, Craig Deans, will take over the coaching role for Saturday's A-League opener against Melbourne Heart.
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