On Thursday Stubbins met with FFA hierarchy John Boultbee and Alistair Edwards to discuss his future within the national coaching structure. 

It came on the back of the club announcing a restructure of their coaching panel with Stubbins axed as part of that review.

“It’s obviously a very exciting period ahead and great of the FFA to show faith in me,” Stubbins told au.fourfourtwo.com. 

Stubbins will complete his coaching pro licence over the coming year while gaining experience with the FFA.

“It’s just a matter of seeing where I fit in and how they can best utilize my skill-sets," he said. "And who knows it may lead to a coaching capacity in the A-League down the track.”

Stubbins, a former NSL player and VPL grand final-winning coach, enjoyed a successful four year spell at Hindmarsh stadium.

Alongside head coach Aurelio Vidmar the pair propelled the Reds to the 2008 Asian Champions League final and guided the club to a successful Club World Cup later that year, while maintaining a push for domestic glory.

During the 2010 A-League pre-season, Stubbins stepped into the first team coaching role after the exit of Vidmar to the Socceroos.

Coolen arrived just weeks before the start of the campaign but with the pre-season work already done by Stubbins and the coaching staff, the side got off to a flyer remaining unbeaten in the first 11 games.

However, United eventually exited in the play-offs two games short of the grand final following a 3-2 loss to Gold Coast at home.

Several sources have told us that the relationship between Coolen and Stubbins became strained over time, but Stubbins didn’t buy into that speculation.  

“Rini has every right to choose who he wants and I wish the club all the best for the future,” said Stubbins, had a year left on his contract.

“It’s been a successful four years. It’s not been a hard slog, but more of an enjoyable, engrossing one that I’ve enjoyed.

“I’m not leaving with any animosity," he added. "I wish everyone the best and I’m sure Rini has his sights set on winning the championship next season.

Later today, Adelaide United coach Rini Coolen will address the media to discuss the recent review of the club which included axing Stubbins.