Only days ago City manager Martin Foyle said the announcement had come "totally out of the blue" but insisting he wouldn't interfere with McBreen's move home.

York City's communications and community director Sophie Hicks, today confirmed the club had received an apology from Fury's football operations manager Jason Driscoll.

"We were disappointed in the way North Queensland Fury disregarded football rules and did not ask for York City's permission to contact our player regarding a move to their club," Hicks said.

"We have received an email from their football operations manager, Jason Driscoll, apologising for the way they mishandled this situation.

"We clearly wish Daniel the very best for his future career in Australia and look forward to him doing his best for York City for the remainder of the season. His two goals at the weekend show his commitment."

Fury CEO Dean Hassall said the A-League's latest expansions club was not aware if two-goal hero McBreen had informed City about his move at any stage.

"York City have been informed of the player signing by North Queensland Fury FC," he said.

"The club is not aware at what stage Daniel spoke to York City about his intentions to play in Australia as that was an issue between Daniel and his manager."