Perth Glory can confirm that it has released Alex Grant from his contract for an undisclosed fee to allow the defender to explore an opportunity overseas.
The 26-year-old, who made 86 A-League appearances and scored three goals after joining the club in 2015, admitted that it was a tough decision to move on.
“I have learned an awful lot in the past five years, not only about myself, but about my profession as a footballer,” he said.
“Playing for Glory has put me in good stead going forward and it was great to taste that success we had a couple of years ago, especially for the fans who had waited a lot longer for it than I had.
“I’ll miss the fans and The Shed and it’s hard because coming from Perth, even though I wasn’t born here, my heart will always reside with the club as they’ve given me a lot over the last five years.
“I’ve been fortunate to play football in my home city with my family coming to watch me.
“It’s been an amazing experience, I’ve really enjoyed it and it’ll be sad to leave the faces that I’ve known for the time I’ve been here, but that’s football.
“I’m grateful for what the club has given me.
“I’ve made some lifelong friends here, not only on the pitch, but upstairs in the office as well who I’ll never lose contact with and I’d like to thank them all.
“The last nine months has probably been the toughest I’ve ever experienced as a footballer with everything that has happened throughout the world.
“I’ve got a young family and I have to look after them and that’s a massive responsibility, so I want to give it everything I’ve got.
“I feel like I’ve always put in for the club and hopefully the Members and fans will respect my decision to leave.
“It’s not forever, leaving Perth.
“Who’s to say I won’t be back here?
“But I’m going now and I want to give it a good go.
“It’s going to be hard, but I’m going to give it everything I’ve got when I’m over there, I’m looking forward to the opportunity and I’m grateful that Glory have been understanding.”
Glory Head Coach Richard Garcia was quick to acknowledge the contribution that Grant made during his time in purple.
“Alex has been a great servant for Glory and during his time with us, has evolved into a mature player,” he said.
“Obviously we’re sad to lose such a good player, but we’re pleased to see him progressing his career and wish him all the very best for the future.
“We hope to see him back in Glory colours one day.”
Those sentiments were echoed by club CEO Tony Pignata.
“On behalf of the club, I’d like to thank Alex for all his efforts over the past five years,” he said.
“He has always been a hugely-popular figure with players, staff and Members and fans alike and we wish him the very best of luck in the next chapter of his career.”
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