CLICK TO SEE CELTIC TRAIN AT ANZ STADIUM

Mariners released a statement today saying the teeneger needed to relax after a punishing workload.

But the eleventh hour withdrawal has raised eyebrows after Celtic admitted they were interested in signing the youngster.

Amini is already being pursued by Borussia Dortmund whose initial offer of $135,000 was rejected by the Mariners and a second offer has yet to come in.

Just yesterday, coach Graham Arnold was talking down Amini's experience and playing time, possibly in an attempt to fend off any further interest in the star.

Amini is now more vital than ever to the Mariners next season after the departure of Patricio Perez meant fans favourite Mustafa could fill the vacant playmaker role for the club.

But his last minute axing from tomorrow's squad means he will not be seen playing in the flesh by Celtic coach Neil Lennon who expressed his interest in the Central Coast prodigy. 

"Amini is a physically developing player that has faced an extremely heavy workload in recent months," said the Mariners statement.

"Having played a full season in the Hyundai A-League, followed by commitments with the Socceroos, U23s and U20 Australian National Teams, it has been established it is in the best long-term interest of Amini to miss the friendly match.

"An assessment from the Mariners medical team diagnosed the teenager with a groin injury that was related to fatigue."

The club statement quoted Amini as saying: "Of course, I'm extremely disappointed to miss this game against Celtic but looking after my body has to be the main priority.

"Unfortunately I haven't had a break for a year, so I know I need a rest in order to clear the injury up."

On Wednesday Celtic manager Lennon said he was well aware of Amini's talent.

"He's a player that has been flagged by a few clubs," Lennon said. "I know he's got talent.

"I'm looking forward to having a look at him on Saturday night. He's come under our radar."

The Young Socceroos camp starts tomorrow and runs for the rest of the week in Sydney. Amini was named as one of the squad but had been given a pass to play for the Mariners against Celtic if required.

An FFA spokesman tonight said Amini's condition would be considered before it was decided if he would join the Blacktown-based camp.

He added: "At this stage he has not been ruled out and will be assessed by the National Team medical staff."

CLICK TO SEE CELTIC TRAIN AT ANZ STADIUM