Central Coast Mariners have confirmed striker Michael Baird has been released from the club and joined Malaysian Super League (MSL) side Sabah FA.
Central Coast Mariners have confirmed striker Michael Baird has been released from the club and joined Malaysian Super League (MSL) side Sabah FA.
Baird, 28, flew to Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia earlier this month to trial with the team and impressed the coaching staff. The striker will feature for his new side in the restructured and rejuvenated Malaysian top flight.
Baird said he was grateful that the Mariners agreed to terminate his contract so he could take up the opportunity.
“The Mariners have been very supportive throughout this whole process,” Baird said. “They allowed me to travel to Malaysia to show Sabah what I could do and, thankfully, didn-t stand in my way to take up Sabah-s offer.”
“I am looking forward to this next test in a new environment. I like new challenges and this is something very different for me.”
“I enjoyed living on the Central Coast and sincerely hope my old teammates carry on their good form for the rest of the season,” he said.
Mariners coach Graham Arnold said he was sure he would excel in the MSL.
“Michael had a good pre-season with us and of course we are sure he will perform very well in his time with Sabah,” Arnold said.
Baird-s initial contract with the team from the 35,000-capacity Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu is for one-season, plus an option for further year.
