Milicevic, who is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, had announced last month that he would be leaving the Jets at the end of the season to pursue a career in Europe.

But the ankle injury that forced the 29-year-old former Socceroo from the field in the 2-1 loss to Sydney FC last week has prompted Milicevic to seek an early release from Newcastle so he could attempt to win a contract overseas during the January transfer window.

"The club knows of my dream to go back and play in the best leagues in the world in Europe," Milicevic told Sportal.

"With me being forced off the field with the injury and not being able to contribute to the team I decided that I would seek a release from the club immediately.

"That way it makes me a free agent and makes me a more attractive prospect for overseas clubs, who are looking to sign players during January.

"I think it is a better alternative than waiting on the sidelines with a chance to perhaps play one or two matches next month if the Jets make the finals before the A-League season finishes and then trying to win a contract."

Milicevic, who has won six caps for the Socceroos and captained both the Young Socceroos and Olyroos, is keen to reignite his glittering career in Europe.

The big central defender has played with FC Zurich and FC Basel and captained FC Thun in the 2005/06 UEFA Champions League against clubs such as Arsenal and AFC Ajax.

"I've always harboured a desire to return to Europe and I feel my match fitness and form is at its peak and I am ready to get back to playing in the best leagues in the world in Europe," he said.

"I have already had some serious offers from clubs in Denmark , Croatia and Switzerland where I have a following.

"Growing up my favourite club was Hajduk Split, so if it was Croatia there wuld only be only club I would play for.

"The ankle injury is healing well and I have already started running so I could be ready to play within weeks."

Milicevic said he had parted amicably with the Newcastle club and wished them all the best for the rest of the season and the future.

He also reserved special praise from defensive partner Nikolai Topor-Stanley and youngster Taylor Regan, who has been given the task of filling Milicevic's central defensive role.

Milicevic added: "I have loved my time in Newcastle and especially the fans, who have been fantastic.

"Topor is a great friend and a great player and I am going to miss playing alongside him, but Taylor Regan is a wonderful prospect.

"He is a good honest player and proud Novocastrian product who has a big future."