Melbourne Victory wishes to advise that defender, Rodrigo Vargas, has been released after 140 Hyundai A-League appearances, over six success-filled seasons.
Since joining the club in season two of the Hyundai A-League, the 33 year-old made more appearances than any other player, helping it to win not one, but two Premiership/Championship doubles, scoring 7 goals along the way.
Vargas joined Melbourne Victory from Victorian Premier League club, Green Gully, and quickly established himself as one of the competition’s premier defenders, continually putting his body on the line, yet very rarely missing games through injury.
Reflecting on his time at Melbourne Victory, Vargas said he’s grateful for the opportunity given to him, “It’s been a privilege being able to play for the most successful club in the league, in my hometown, in front of my family and friends, for the best fans in the country.â€
“The two Premiership/Championship doubles won in front of packed out Etihad Stadium’s remain highlights of my time at Melbourne Victory,†he added.
Melbourne Victory Managing Director, Richard Wilson, said, “Roddy has been a fantastic professional over the years and we thank him for his great contribution to our club.â€
“He was a warrior in every sense of the word, continually getting himself up for games when others may have opted to sit out through injury.â€
“The fact that he won a Victory medal among such a talented and successful squad is testament to himself and his capabilities as a footballer,†Wilson added.
The club will honour Rodrigo at the 2011/12 Victory Medal Night and also ensure he is presented to the Melbourne Victory faithful next season to recognise and celebrate his A-League career.