In 2015/16 he scored 21 goals in the Championship and was the name on every Premier League battler's lips, but now Ross McCormack is in footballing limbo, focusing on returning to the UK to be closer to his family.

Aston Villa - McCormack's parent club - has recalled the striker from the Mariners immediately, after Mike Mulvey hinted last night that the former Scottish international wouldn't be playing for the Central Coast again. 

But Villa coach Dean Smith has also said that McCormack's Villa departure is also imminent, as the club seek to offload the striker, who's seen as an expensive flop for the promotion-seeking club.

Whether a return to Australia may one day be on the cards is uncertain, but McCormack's language certainly seems to favour a future close to his family.

"I would like to thank the Central Coast Mariners and the fans for welcoming me on the Central Coast with open arms," McCormack said.

"Although I was only there for a short period, everyone made me feel very welcome from day one.

"The opportunity for me to return to the UK is something that I couldn't turn down and will allow me to see my children more, which is something that is very important to me.

"I wish the playing group and coaching staff all the best for the rest of the season." 

McCormack made five appearances for the Mariners, scoring once.