Young attacker Slaven Vranesevic has launched an impassioned defence of his character following his sacking from Sunshine George Cross, claiming he was made a scapegoat for the club’s mixed form this season.
The forced departure after the mid-season transfer window renders the 20-year-old unable to play in the Victorian NPL until next year, but is currently plying his trade at State League 1 outfit Casey Comets.
The former South Melbourne winger alleges he was shown the door an hour after a 4-0 defeat to Whittlesea Ranges, notified via text message that his attitude was deemed unfit for the club.
“[I was sent] a text saying I’ve been let go due to my attitude which I was surprised with, considering that I had not been given any prior notice about my attitude,” Vranisevic says.
“Usually if a coach is not happy with a player’s attitude, he takes them aside and lets them know that he is not happy so the player becomes aware of this and can improve.”
Coach Tony Ciantar voiced his discontent with of some of his playing squad after the Whittlesea game, saying he would “iron all that out and get rid of these players.”
Vranesevic joined George Cross this season from fellow NPL1 outfit Springvale White Eagles despite interest from at least one NPL club, and is disappointed with the timing of his departure at Chaplin Reserve.
“To let me go only a few days after the transfer window is pathetic as it denies me the opportunity to play competitive football until next year which at my age is integral to my development and progression as a footballer,” he said.
“I attended trainings and was a vital first team member of the squad who made the sacrifice of travelling from my home in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs to the club’s western suburbs facilities on a regular basis.”
He also believes his status as a Sunshine player should be retained as he penned a one year deal at the beginning of the season.
“I signed a one year contract with the club and I was told the significance of signing the contract was because they don’t do amateur stuff here.”
“[But then I was made aware] that the existence of a contract holds no weight as it’s an internal club contract and not a formal FFV approved one.”
Sunshine’s fortunes have fluctuated since Vranesevic’s departure, leading 2-0 only to concede twice in injury-time to draw with Eastern Lions, before losing 2-0 to Moreland Zebras on Saturday afternoon.
Image: Sunshine George Cross FC