Melbourne Victory, Vasilevski part ways

Melbourne Victory today announced it has reached a mutual agreement to part ways with former Young Socceroo Daniel Vasilevski, who is keen to secure regular first-team football.

Melbourne Victory today announced it has reached a mutual agreement to part ways with former Young Socceroo Daniel Vasilevski, who is keen to secure regular first-team football.

Vasilevski, 27, joined Melbourne Victory from Victorian Premier League side Altona Magic in 2007 and played 12 matches in 2007/08 before signing a two-year contract extension ahead of the club’s maiden AFC Champions League campaign.

Vasilevski managed only two more appearances for Melbourne Victory, both in Asia’s premier club competition, with injuries derailing his 2008/09 preparations and restricting him to a handful of National Youth League games.

“Daniel has been great around the club but is keen to secure regular first-team football, which we understand and wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” Melbourne Victory Football Operations Manager Gary Cole said.

“Daniel was recruited to the club in 2007 and had a great run at right back that led to him signing a new deal in 2008, yet his opportunities were limited over the past 12 months and he’s now keen to explore his options.”

Vasilevski, who has now returned to peak fitness, reflected on his stint with Melbourne Victory fondly.

“I really enjoyed my time at Melbourne Victory and it was a really positive experience,” he said.

“The professionalism of the coaching staff, players and everyone at the club is outstanding, but as a player I want to secure a spot in the starting 11 and that desire has driven me to move on.”