A Qatari club reportedly offered the Serbian international eight-times his current salary but the Sky Blues refused to release him.

And while the 31-year-old missed out on the big money, he said his only focus was helping Sydney FC win the grand final.

“Before the season I had have an opportunity to go,” he said. “It was very difficult time for me because it was very good contract for me. But I forget all this because I have one more year with Sydney FC. I just want to play good and try to help my teammates win the league after six years and that’s all.”

Ninkovic was one of the few shining lights in Sydney FC’s miserable 2015/16 A-League season and he has taken his game to another level in helping the Sky Blues win five in a row.

The creative midfielder said adjusting to the rigours of the A-League had helped him with his foootball.

“First season I came here it was difficult for me,” he said. “Because I came in a new country new league, new life, everything was new for me, new players and new team and like Filip Holosko I needed time.

“But I feel really good this year physically and mentally and maybe that is the key. All the players in the team are playing well. Everyone is enjoying this year, not just me and that is why we have played so good.”

Ninkovic attributed his dazzling form to now playing in his preferred position.

“Yeah last year in the beginning I played on the left many games,” he said. “But I’m actually more comfortable like a number 10 this year. When Alex Brosque plays like a number 10, I also play like a number 10.

“I don’t have a problem to play left because this year we play like two number 10’s, so it doesn’t matter if I play right or left I actually feel really comfortable this year.”