Culina was sensationally dropped from the Sky Blues squad at the weekend after the training ground bust up on Friday, and his contract was ripped up today.

But au.fourfourtwo.com can reveal this weekend’s row was just the latest in a series between Farina and Culina.

The veteran midfielder is understood to have been told several times he would be playing at the weekend - only to be dropped at the last minute.

But while he was disappointed not to be playing, Culina, 32, was said to be more concerned at reports from the club that he was missing through injury.

The player is understood to be concerned that false stories questioning his fitness could cost him any hope of a move to another club.

And he is believed to have been furious at the coach playing mind games with him and the press.

Culina’s heroic return to football after a two year absence with a knee injury, with the support of Sydney FC, looked like being the fairytale story of the season.

But the behind the scenes frustrations bubbled over in last week’s training field confrontation when Culina was told to line up in the second team.

Sydney FC CEO Tony Pignata was intending to sit down with Culina today to discuss the former PSV star’s future but it is understood ex-Socceroo coach Farina had already washed his hands of the player.

Club sources say the performances by Rhyan Grant and Peter Triantis, who scored his debut A-League goal on the weekend, only served to strengthen Farina’s hand.

The club today terminated the Socceroo’s contract, effective immediately.

“Sydney FC has this afternoon agreed to mutually terminate the contract of Jason Culina,” said Sydney FC CEO Tony Pignata. “We would like to wish Jason the best of luck with the rest of his football career.”

Culina made eight appearances for the Sky Blues, scoring two goals and in a statement issued through the club, he thanked Sydney for the opportunity to continue his football career.
 
“I would like to thank Sydney FC for assisting me with my rehabilitation and my return to football,” said the statement.

“I would like to thank the Board, management, coaching staff, players and especially physiotherapist Stan Ivancic.

“The circumstances surrounding my departure are unfortunate but I feel fit and strong and I am determined to continue my playing career in the future.”