Fowler's adviser, George Scott, telephoned Sydney FC chief executive officer George Perry to say that the fourth highest goal scorer in English Premier League history would not be moving to the harbour city.

"Naturally, we're bitterly disappointed but we're satisfied we did everything we could to persuade Robbie to come to Sydney FC, Australia and the Hyundai A-League competition," said Perry.

"Robbie was tremendously impressed by what he saw in Sydney but he's chosen to go elsewhere. We respect his decision and wish him and his family well."

Sydney FC will continue to explore marquee player options with a view to strengthening a strong squad that competed so creditably in the 2007 AFC Champions League and has been bolstered in recent weeks by the addition of 2006 FIFA World Cup star Tony Popovic.

But Perry says that Sydney FC will only recruit a marquee player if he meets all the club's criteria.

"It's important we ensure we don't get a marquee player for the sake of getting one at any price and comprising our standards. We need to ensure any prospective signing fits the bill," said Perry.