The FCA confirmed that Stajcic had effectively been placed on gardening leave with Football Federation Australia activating the nine months’ notice period in his employment contract.

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FCA President Phil Moss said: “Alen is a valued member of FCA and will receive our full support during this difficult period. We look forward to FFA honouring all of its contractual commitments.

"Alen has overseen one of the most successful periods in Australian football history, having led the Matildas to the Quarter Finals of the 2015 World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games, and the Final of the 2018 Asian Cup, as well as being the inaugural winner of the Tournament of Nations in 2017.”

The coaching body has assisted Stajcic in obtaining independent legal representation to explore "all available options".