Wellington Phoenix will lose two key All Whites at the end of the 2022/23 A-League season, with both Clayton Lewis and Oli Sail choosing not to re-sign with the club.
In a huge blow to the Phoenix, the pair as well as midfielder Steven Ugarkovic will all leave the club when their contracts expire at the end of the current season.
Despite the exits, though, the Phoenix are hopeful of sending the trio out on a high, chasing a spot in the A-League finals.
"They are key members of our squad and have all contributed to where the team is now; in finals contention with eight rounds to play," Phoenix director of football Shaun Gill said.
"Oli, Clay and Stevie will be hard to replace next season, but they're great professionals and I know they're committed to helping lead the Wellington Phoenix to this year's A-League finals."
Both Sail and Lewis have made more than 50 appearances for the Phoenix at club level, and pushed on to become regulars for New Zealand at international level.
Lewis is currently out injured with a fractured kneecap, but is hopeful for a return towards the end of the regular season.
While the Phoenix, who also lost All Whites forward Ben Waine in the January transfer window, will be hit hard by the departures, Gill assures negotiations with other off-contract players are ongoing.
"Negotiations continue with other off-contract players and fans can rest assured that the core of the men's squad will be sticking around for the 2023-24 A-League season and beyond."
The Phoenix are currently fifth in the A-League standings, one point ahead of Sydney FC in sixth and occupying the final playoff spot, tied with Newcastle Jets, who are seventh on goal difference.
