With the possibility that end could come as soon as Friday night if the result doesn't go Phoenix's way against Sydney FC at Westpac Stadium, Brown has made the tough decision after being given the chance to study for a Master's degree in Management in England.

"It was an emotional decision to make, but an exciting one for me," said Brown, who now has to choose between studying at either Cambridge University or the London School of Economics.

"The opportunity to continue my studies at either of those places is fantastic.

"It was tough making the decision to leave what has been a dream job but I believe it is the right time for me having just turned 31."

Brown was keen to wait until after the season was over before making his intentions public but was talked around by coach Ricki Herbert.

"I spoke to Ricki on how I should handle it and he was adamant I should share it with the team," Brown added.

"I told the boys and management team at dinner while we were in Melbourne recently and I'm so glad I did.

"It was good to share it with a bunch of guys who are all real friends as well as team-mates. I thought it would be easy to do till I stood up.

"It was quite an emotional moment."

Hoping that Phoenix can achieve 'something special' in their finals campaign, Brown simply didn't have the commitment to another World Cup campaign, much to Herbert's disappointment.

"This came completely out of the blue," Herbert said.

"It is going to be difficult to replace him because he has been an integral part not only in building Phoenix, but also playing a leading role in a successful World Cup campaign.

"Losing a midfielder with Tim's ability to get forward and score goals is a massive loss to both club and country.

"While we will really miss him he goes with our best wishes and I'm sure he will be as successful in his latest venture as he was in football."