| One of five big earners told by boss Craig Brewster they are no longer part of the long-term plans at Tannadice, Brebner is wanted by A-League outfit Melbourne Victory.
And, if he can agree a severance package with Tannadice chairman Eddie Thompson regarding the final year of his contract, the former Manchester United and Hibs man could be on a flight to the other side of the world as early as next week.
The national league season starts in August and the ambitious Victory want Brebner added to their squad as soon as possible. If a deal is done, he will team up with former Rangers and Millwall man Kevin Muscat, who is with the Australian World Cup squad.
He would also join a growing list of men with strong Scottish connections now working in Aussie football. Last month McCluskey quit Dens Park for Richmond Eagles — also based in Melbourne, but who play a grade down in the Victoria Premier League. Just last week, the national league received a major boost when England legend Terry Butcher agreed to leave Motherwell and take over at Sydney FC.
And, with the Socceroos taking part in next month’s World Cup Finals in Germany, football Down Under is no longer the backwater it once was.
Importantly for United, getting Brebner off the wage bill would free up cash for them to start bringing in the new faces the manager wants, though Craig was remaining cautious today.
“It would be good if we could get a bit of movement started, but, right now, nothing is confirmed with Grant. I know there is an opportunity for him to go to Australia and have a look at something over there, but we’ll just have to see how it pans out,” said Craig.
He is still working behind the scenes to get new signings lined up and, by the time he heads for a coaching course at Largs on Monday, he should have met with Inverness Caley Thistle director of football Graeme Bennett to discuss bids to get Ian Black, David Proctor and maybe even Darren Dods.
“I’m hopeful we’ll get together in the next day or so, maybe even before today is out, and see what we can do,” he added.
And, although he will be based in the west while he completes his ‘A’ Licence next week, the manager will still be continuing his efforts to strengthen his squad.
Meanwhile, Scotland Under-19 pair Garry Kenneth and Greg Cameron have both been in at Tannadice over the last few days for treatment to injuries picked up while helping the national team reach the European Championship Finals. Both should be fully fit again in the next week or so. |
