The Sky Blues are seeking clarification with the Teesiders regarding their supposed cancellation of the match which was due to be held at the Sydney Football Stadium on either July 18 or 19.

A club spokesman for Middlesbrough told their its website: "We had an offer to play games there (Australia), including against Sydney, but the football department felt such a long journey would not be ideal preparation for the new season."

If Middlesbrough do pull out of the exhibition clash, Sydney FC will seek a replacement team to play the match against.

The Sky Blues have confirmed that they have already begun discussions with other potential opponents for the match if that scenario arises.