New Zealand law expressly forbids advertising overseas betting operations - and as Centrebet is Australian-based and the game is in Wellington, the ban would apply.

Centrebet are the Jets main shirt sponsor for the first time this season and the issue has never arisen before now.

Newcastle is currently exploring what possible solutions there might be but the Jets may be forced to either remove the sponsor's name from the shirt or cover it up.

The row has erupted after the AFC said they wanted to see Wellington Phoenix kicked out of the A-League to make the competition entirely Australian-based.

Today Jets Chief Executive Officer John Tsatsimas said: “The club is considering the options available in order to resolve this issue and form an appropriate outcome for all concerned organisations.

“It is unfortunate that we have received this notification, but we have immediately entered into discussions with the New Zealand Government."