But the club dropped a heavy hint that the player will eventually be granted the chance to try his luck abroad.

Chief executive officer George Perry said: “We're delighted to have Mark on board for the coming A-League season.

"Sydney FC is immensely proud of Mark's international achievements in leading the Olyroos and starring for the Socceroos and can't wait to see him return to training where he'll be welcomed by everyone at the club."

The club was less than impressed when it discovered the player had travelled to France for a trial.

A confused picture began to emerge with the player initially linked with a permanent switch to Metz, then seen as a stop-gap and then speculation grew that he had simply walked out.

Sydney coach Branko Culina said he was disappointed by events but with Milligan now on his way home to Sydney, the club stress that no grudge will be held against the player.

The club had a series of conversations with the player and his management over the past 72 hours to come to the settlement.

Perry said: "Mark is ambitious and wants to test himself in one of Europe's top leagues at some stage in his career.

“We appreciate that and, as a result of lengthy talks with Mark and his representative, the club has set down a procedure with which all parties are happy."

He added: "We've always said we won't stand in the way of Mark if we receive an acceptable offer and that remains the case.

"As far as we're concerned, the matter with Mark and his representative is closed."

Milligan is set to arrive back in Sydney tomorrow morning.