Doig, 29, has fallen down the pecking order this season with skipper Alex Wilkinson and experienced Dutchman Patrick Zwaanswijk forming a powerful combination in the centre of defence.

The pair has earned the plaudits of new coach Graham Arnold who clearly sees them as his first choice central two.

After making 13 appearances last season following his switch from Northampton Town, Doig has not made the teamsheet for either of the club’s first two games this season.

And with a surfeit of quality defensive options such as Pedj Bojic, Rostyn Griffiths and Trent Sainsbury, Doig’s chances this season appear slim.

It's believed Arnold foresaw this situation in the off-season and offered Doig the chance to continue his career elsewhere.

A move away didn’t materialise but  the coach has been impressed with the former Nottingham Forest youth player’s attitude in trying to force his way back into the side.

Meanwhile it’s believed at least one other A-League club might be interested in picking up the former Scotland U/21 player and Northampton captain.  

One of those clubs could be Gold Coast United, with O Kosmos columnists Tony and Xanthie Rallis reporting that the glitter strip club may be interested in the big defender to replace one of their existing visa players.