The pair join Isaka Cernak (Melbourne Victory) and Justin Pasfield (Central Coast Mariners) in the exit lane after it was revealed today Malik is rejoining Adelaide United and Payne will hook up with Branko Culina at the Jets.

But Krayem said today the club did not stand in the players' way and understood the fact that they had careers to think of - but they are bitterly disappointed at losing two more star players.

“We’ve lost two young players who have a passion for the place [North Queensland Fury] who really wanted to stay here," he said. "And that’s more disappointing for the club.

“It’s probably the worst we’ve felt as a club for a very, very long time. Losing two players who could be the hub of the future of the club in one go, is hard to take.

“We’re very, very disappointed. It’s a pretty emotional day at the club. And when you see the two boys speak about the passion they have for the place... they’re going to go to other clubs with a lot of passion and emotion.”

Krayem said today’s announcement had not come as a shock to the club and he added that he felt the club were hard done by over the situation of club ownership “but that it’s out of our control”.

He added that the club felt no bitterness towards the players and the club were mindful of the players’ futures when these offers came up.

The FFA currently own Fury but have not guaranteed the club’s existence beyond this season, a fact that is frustrating to all connected with a club only in its second season.

Krayem added: “They go with our blessing and leave the club as better players and individuals.

"We’ve built good characters here. And when they go to their new clubs they’ll say: You know what, Fury is a great club...’

"They're only gone for two years. They're only taking a sabattical. They'll be back at the Fury."