Liaoning recently signed Aussie duo James Holland and Robbie Kruse, forcing Thwaite and Vidosic to the fringes, along with the recent changes to the CSL foreign allowance.

Thwaite, 33, and Vidosic, 29, had contracts for this year with Liaoning, having both joined the club in 2016.

With the support of Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) they have mutually terminated the deals effective immediately, making them eligible to sign with clubs of their choosing, including a potential return to the A-League.

The duo will be of interest to several A-League clubs, with Vidosic’s strong 2015/16 season with Western Sydney Wanderers prompting his move to China.

The 23-time Socceroo, who recently got married to his Adelaide-raised partner, has also previously spent time with Adelaide United and Brisbane Roar.

All three of Vidosic's former clubs will compete in the 2017 AFC Champions League with Brisbane Roar taking on Shanghai Shenhua in the playoffs midweek.

“Navigating matters such as this can be difficult, but having the support of PFA meant that I could get it resolved quickly and resume my career with a new club,” Vidosic said.

“I wish the club all the best for the upcoming season and I’m looking forward to the next chapter.”

Thwaite has been a journeyman of the A-League, with stints at Perth Glory, Gold Coast United and Melbourne Victory. His wife and children are currently based on the Gold Coast.

“I enjoyed my time at Liaoning in the CSL and I wish the club all the best for the future,” Thwaite said.

“The PFA were instrumental in ensuring we achieved an outcome that we are all happy with and making sure throughout the process that our rights were protected.”

PFA Chief Executive John Didulica said the matter highlighted the important work undertaken by the player association’s legal department.