Melbourne Victory have released Thailand international defender Surat Sukha.
The 28-year-old was given permission to return home on compassionate grounds after Victory struck a transfer deal with Thai Premier League club Buriram PEA.
Sukha farewelled his team-mates behind closed doors following Tuesday’s training session.
The left-back, who has played 16 internationals for his country, made 41 appearances during his two seasons in the Victorian capital after joining from Chonburi.
“I enjoyed my time at Melbourne Victory, but it was in the best interest of my family that I return home to Thailand,” Sukha said in a statement.
“I made some very good friends here in Melbourne and I wish the club every success in the future.”
While disappointed to lose a player of Sukha’s calibre, Victory coach Mehmet Durakovic acknowledged his contribution to the club.
“Surat was hugely popular among the playing group and very quickly became an important part of our set-up due to his competitive nature and versatility at both the left and right-hand side of defence,” Durakovic said.
“The massive cultural differences between Thailand and Australia made it difficult for his family to settle here in Melbourne, and as a result we reluctantly agreed to transfer him to Buriram PEA.”
The news comes on the eve of Victory’s glamour friendly against Scottish giants Celtic at AAMI Park on Wednesday night.
