Official release from Central Coast Mariners

Central Coast Mariners can today confirm striker Michael Baird has been released from the club and has joined Malaysian Super League (MSL) side Sabah FA, effective immediately.

In line with recent media coverage, the Mariners can confirm Baird, 28, flew to Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia earlier this month to trial with the team and get a taste of what would prove to be his new surrounds.

Having impressed the Malaysian clubs' coaching staff, Baird has signed on the dotted line for Sabah, with his new side set to compete in the restructured and rejuvenated Malaysian top flight.

An appreciative Baird described his gratitude that the Mariners signed a termination of his contract so he could take on a new football adventure.

"The Mariners have been very supportive throughout this whole process," Baird said. "They allowed me to travel to Malaysia to show Sabah what I could do and, thankfully, didn't stand in my way to take up Sabah's offer.

"I am looking forward to this next test in a new environment. I like new challenges and this is something very different for me.

"I enjoyed living on the Central Coast and sincerely hope my old teammates carry on their good form for the rest of the season."

Baird's initial contract with the team from the 35,000 capacity Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu is for one-season, plus an option for further year.