Robinson's last gasp winner in the final moments of the major semi-final against Adelaide saved Victory from a morale-crushing defeat and gave them the home advantage for the Grand Final.

But Victory today revealed Robinson was one of three players being released by the club.

Melbourne also confirmed that Vince Lia and Simon Storey had completed their contracts with the club, and would not be part of the squad in the upcoming Hyundai A-League 2007/08 season.

Merrick wished the departing players all the best and thanked them for their service to the club.

“In James’ case, it is an issue with him being a visa player, so he can consider himself very unlucky,” Merrick said.

“Vince is a quality player, who is currently doing really well with the national Under 23 side. He needs the opportunity to get more regular game time, so we’re happy to allow him to pursue another club.”

Storey opted to leave the club following Victory’s Championship success, following a lifelong ambition to travel overseas and live in the United Kingdom. He is hopeful of securing a spot on a roster overseas.

“In Simon’s case, it was a matter of him wanting to travel and try his luck in the UK, and we wish him all the very best in his future endeavors,” Merrick added.

But it was good news for Steve Pantelidis, Rodrigo Vargas and Leigh Broxham who have all agreed extended contracts with the A-League champions.

The trio were all part of Victory's remarkable 6-0 Grand Final triumph against Adelaide United in February, and will now play a pivotal role in the club's defence of their league title and AFC Champions League campaign.

Defenders Pantelidis and Vargas have signed new two-year deals, while midfielder Broxham, fresh from duty with the Australia Olympic side, has committed to Victory for another three years.

"All three players we've announced today are very determined and hard working individuals who provide the defensive strength we need from which to launch our fast paced attacking game," Merrick said.

"They probably don't get as many plaudits as the guys at the pointy end like Danny Allsopp and Archie Thompson, but their value to our squad is just as important.

"Rodrigo was perhaps the find of the season last year, coming up through the Victorian Premier League and performing at a very high level all season.

"Panta (Pantelidis) has done a superb job for us in both seasons so far, playing a variety of roles in midfield and defense. His versatility is a terrific asset for our team.

"Leigh's career has come on in leaps and bounds since debuting for us against Perth last season. He was called up to the Olympic team and has yet to put a foot wrong. For a player such as Leigh to commit to an A-League club for three years is a ringing endorsement of this league's attractiveness as a legitimate career path for young players."

Vargas, Broxham and Pantelidis will link with the rest of the Victory squad, including new signings Ljubo Milicevic and Mitchell Langerak, for the commencement of pre-season training on April 2 before the Hyundai A-League Pre-Season Cup begins in July.