Central Coast Mariners can today confirm striker Michael Baird has been released from the club and has joined Malaysian Super League (MSL) side Sabah FA, effective immediately.
Central Coast Mariners can today confirm striker Michael Baird has been released from the club and has joined Malaysian Super League (MSL) side Sabah FA, effective immediately.
In line with recent media coverage, the Mariners can confirm Baird, 28, flew to Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia earlier this month to trial with the team and get a taste of what would prove to be his new surrounds.
Having impressed the Malaysian clubs- coaching staff, Baird has signed on the dotted line for Sabah, with his new side set to compete in the restructured and rejuvenated Malaysian top flight.
An appreciative Baird described his gratitude that the Mariners signed a termination of his contract so he could take on a new football adventure.
“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.”
Central Coast Mariners Head Coach, Graham Arnold, wished Baird well in his Malaysian adventure and 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.
