Adelaide defender Angelo Costanzo and midfielders Diego and Jonas Salley will all be released by the club when their current contracts expire at the end of the Hyundai A-Leauge 2008/09 season.
Coach Aurelio Vidmar admitted the decision was an extremely tough one, but is adament that they are still a valuable part of the club’s championship ambitions this season.
“It’s a very difficult decision for the coaching staff because all three have contributed positively during their time here but unfortunately with the direction the club is moving into, they are not part of our plans,” Vidmar said.
“However, all three will still play a very important part in our finals campaign as we try to win the championship.”
Costanzo has racked up 73 Hyundai A-League matches for Adelaide since making his debut in the inaugural season.
Diego has played 28 matches in his time in South Australia, but saved his best for the Reds’ Asian Champions League campagin, scoring three times the group stage and a crucial goal in the first leg of the semifinal against Bunyodkor.
Salley has been in and out of the team, but still managed 42 appearances for the club.
“We truly appreciate everything each of them has done for the club during their time here and it is never easy releasing players but it’s a part of the game.”
“Once the season ends, we wish them all the best in whatever the future holds for them.”
The trio’s departure adds to the list of names who will not be at the club next season, which include Paul Agostino and Michael Valkanis, who have both announced their retirements, and defender Sasa Ognenovski, who is heading to Korea to join K-League club Seongnam Ilhwa.
