Sainsbury has been in dispute with the club over an unspecified complaint, believed to be pay-related, and got the PFA involved in his case after flying home from Russia 2018.

Today the players’ union confirmed they had helped him build a case to walk out on the team and now look for a new club for next season.

An official statement said: “Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) can confirm Trent Sainsbury has terminated his employment contract with Chinese Super League club Jiangsu Suning effective immediately.”

PFA Chief Executive John Didulica added: “The PFA’s legal department has provided advice to Trent since the conclusion of the World Cup.

“Trent has terminated his contract for just cause in accordance with FIFA Regulations and the longstanding jurisprudence of the Court of Arbitration for Sport. As a consequence, he is now a free agent and entitled to sign with a club of his choosing.”

Sainsbury is now looking to resume his career quickly, probably with a long-mooted move to QPR in the English Championship.

He added: “I thank the PFA for their support during this period and I wish Jiangsu Suning all the best for the future. I look forward to resolving my playing future as soon as possible.”