Phoenix release pair

Wellington Phoenix FC has released Brazilian imports George Paladini and Cleberson from their contracts.

Striker Paladini and defender Cleberson have played limited roles in the Phoenix’s season to date and club management opted to release the pair from their contracts with immediate effect.

Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said the players’ contracts had been terminated by mutual agreement.

“George and Cleberson are talented players but, unfortunately, the club does not see a role for them in our set-up in the long-term. Like all professional footballers they want to be playing regularly. We agreed that it was better to release the players from their contracts early to allow them to pursue other opportunities elsewhere.”