Aussie Ward Set For Hoops Move

[Ref]

Australian midfielder Nick Ward is set to join Coca-Cola Championship side QPR after securing his release from Perth Glory.

The 21-year-old, who has represented Australia at Under-20 level, obtained permission from Football Federation Australia to leave the A-League team.

However the Australian authorities have taken a dim view of Ward's move, which they believe to be a backwards step.

FFA head of operations Matt Carroll said: "It's disappointing to see one of our best local footballers wanting to leave the Hyundai A-League to pursue his football career in a second-tier competition in England.

"With our recent move into Asia, including the Asian Cup and Asian Champions league, there are many more opportunities for Nick to develop his international standing and experience in Australia rather than in England.

"Nick has taken this decision on the advice of his management, and against the advice of the Australian national team management who believe his playing prospects would have been better served remaining at Perth Glory and gaining valuable match time."