Phoenix football operations manager Shaun Gill said the cooperation of New Zealand Football, the Malaysian Football Association and Football Federation Australia had seen the transfer completed quickly.

Phoenix coach Des Buckingham said he was delighted at the smoothness of the transfer.

“To have a player of Shane’s quality added to the squad at this point in the season is a real boost,” he said.

“It gives us another option up front which is important as we aim for the playoffs.

“Hamish Watson has done a good job for us in recent weeks and will continue to be an important part of the squad, while Shane adds tremendous experience to the line-up.”