Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold has slammed the concept of a third Sydney-based A-League franchise.
Reports coming from Australia suggest the FFA are ready to replace the Wellington Phoenix with a new Cronulla franchise as early as next year, but Arnold doesn't like it.
"Five teams in New South Wales in a ten team competition? I don't think is probably a national competition, it's like you're going back to state league," said Arnold.
"I know derbies are special but how many derbies can you have? Maybe Brisbane needs one, maybe Adelaide needs one. Do we need another one?"
Arnold suggested the Sydney FC fanbase and player pool would diminish, with the Sutherland shire and St George the club's big catchment areas.
Wellington Phoenix General Manager David Dome this morning described the reports as a "beat up".
"The FFA see the Phoenix as being one of the 10 teams in the A-League next year - they've always said that," Dome said.
AFP