Buijs bummed to miss Sydney FC's ACL cut

Coach Graham Arnold described dumping one of his overseas stars as one of the hardest decisions he's had to make. All four have been crucial to the Sky Blues domestic success.

Arnold named 20 members of the current A-League squad, including stars Milos Ninkovic, Adrian Mierzejewski and Bobo, as well as six players from the Sky Blues National Youth League side.

The harbour-siders kick off their campaign at home to Suwon Samsung Bluewings next Wednesday night (February 14).

Buijs couldn't hide his dismay after hearring the decision: “I understand how tough this decision is. I am disappointed, because I had a big drive to play in the Champions League. I am still fully committed to my team mates and I want to help them continue our success this season.

“We have a fantastic squad who will perform to their best in Asia and I will be fully behind them.

“I am determined to perform in the A-League and win a second Premiers Plate and Championship for my club, my team-mates and most importantly my fans.”

Buijs celebrates a win with fans

Under Asian Football Confederation rules Sydney FC may choose only three players whose nationality is from outside the AFC Member States. Portugese winger Fabio Ferreira who was signed to play A-League only.

Buijs' omission shaves years of experience from the Sydney backine with the likes of Aaron Calver, 22, and new signing Ben Warland, 21, coming into the mix. Long-term casualty Rhyan Grant has also been named in the squad.

Sydney have conceded just 14 goals this season, eight less than nearest rivals Newcastle Jets and Melbourne City.

Arnold said: “I believe we have an excellent squad, a good draw and a great chance of success in the competition.

“Our aim is to go further than we have before and to produce even greater results.  It is going to be an exciting journey for the club and one we are looking forward to.

“All four of our overseas signings (Milos Ninkovic, Bobô, Adrian Mierzejewski and Buijs) have been outstanding for us this season and all four deserve to be playing in the tournament.

“Making this decision has been one of the hardest things I’ve had to do as a coach and it is one of the toughest selections I will ever have to make.

“Jordy is a fantastic player for our club and has been central to our A-League and FFA Cup successes over the last year.

“He has a huge part to play in ensuring we continue our domestic dominance and retain our Premiers Plate and Champions trophies.”

Sydney FC will face Chinese giants Shanghai Shenhua, Japanese club Kashima Antlers as well as Suwon in six group games over the course of the next 10 weeks.

The club can name up to 30 players in their squad and have included young players Tom Heward-Belle, Jeremy Cox, William Mutch, Patrick Flottman, Marco Tilio and Jackson Bandiera in the 26.

The squad can be updated later in the year if they progress past the round of 16.