Sydney FC have agreed to release goalkeeping coach Zeljko Kalac from the final year of his contract to pursue another opportunity.

Kalac joined the club four years ago and admits he is sad to be leaving.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity and support Sydney FC has given me over the last four years of my life,” he said.

“It is a great club which has helped me during some difficult times and for that I will be forever grateful.

“I’d like to say a very big thank you to Scott Barlow, Tony Pignata, Graham Arnold and the Sydney FC Board of Directors for the opportunity to allow me to join a close friend who has asked for my help.

“Were it not for the close bond I share with him I would not be leaving the club.

“We’ve had a great season under Arnie this year and he will always be like an older brother to me.  It was a pleasure to work under him and with the entire coaching staff at Sydney FC.”

Head Coach Graham Arnold wished Kalac well for the future.

“I’d like to thank Zeljko for his work over the last year and his job in producing three excellent goalkeepers.  People move on in football and I wish Spider and his family all the very best.”

A replacement for Kalac for the Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur games will be announced shortly.

Sydney FC take on English Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur in a football classic at ANZ Stadium on Saturday 30 May. Purchase your tickets today for this not to be missed football event!