Stuart, his wife Lorna and their two children, Sophie and Fraser, made the decision to move back to Scotland to be closer to family and friends.

At 35, Stuart is one of Australia’s youngest coaches and joined  Fury in May from Brisbane Strikers where he was head coach of the highly successful QSL side.

Before moving into coaching, Stuart had a prolific playing career in both Scotland and Australia, including lengthy spells at the Brisbane Strikers in the now defunct NSL and Queensland Roar (now Brisbane Roar in the Hyundai A-League).

On announcing his departure, McLaren said; “It’s with great sadness that I will be leaving the club and the region after our match against Wellington Phoenix.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to work for the Fury even through the eventful season we’ve had.

“I want to make it clear that this has been a difficult decision to make and has nothing to do with the club’s current plight, but as all husbands and fathers know, family must be the priority.

“I hope to continue to contribute to the club whilst based overseas and if circumstances allow, return to Townsville and Fury in the coming years.

“I’d like to wish Fury much success and I’m 100% confident this club will have a long and bright future.” 

Robbie Middleby, NQ Fury Football Operations Manager; “This is a big loss for  Fury, but family must come first, and Stuart knows he has the full support of everyone at the club.

“Stuart has done a fantastic job this season and has been an integral part of the football department leaving us with big shoes to fill.

“We hope to call upon Stuart’s services at his new UK base, particularly when it comes to player development and helping recruit quality overseas players.

 “We wish Stuart and his family all the best with their big move and hopefully one day they will return to Townsville and the Fury.”

NQ Fury Chief Executive, Rabieh Krayem said; “It’s naturally disappointing to lose someone of Stuart’s calibre and coaching ability, but he knows he has our support in making this tough decision.

“Stuart’s contribution across the board at the club has been first-class and the door will always be open if he and the family decide to move back to Australia.”