PFA criticises banishment of Sydney players

The Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) have criticised the move by Sydney FC to banish two players from team training, claiming the move is illegal.

The Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) have criticised the move by Sydney FC to banish two players form team training, claiming the move is illegal.

Nick Carle and Matt Thompson were reportedly sent home from training yesterday, and told to train with the youth team.

According to media reports, the pair was banished for disobeying orders from coach Frank Farina during Sydney-s 3-0 loss to Adelaide on Saturday.

In a statement, PFA General Manager, Adam Vivian, said the club had not respected the rights of the players.

“We have a CBA that the clubs must comply with,” Vivian said.

“The actions of Sydney FC in excluding Nick and Matt from training are not in accordance with the CBA. If the situation is not remedied within 24 hours, we will take the necessary legal steps.

“Unfortunately this is not the first time this season where the PFA has been forced to intervene in this type of situation.

“This calls into question the behavior of some clubs and undermines a competition that is based on respect for contracts and a commitment to player wellbeing.”

Sydney FC responded via a statement of their own, claiming a resolution was being sought.

"Sydney FC is currently in discussions with two of its players and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) over a number of issues."

"We are confident a resolution to these matters will be found."

"The club will be making no further comment."