Canberra United and Paige Nielsen have agreed for the American forward to depart the club with immediate effect due to personal reasons.
Nielsen will head back to the United States over the festive period, following time overseas first in South Korea and then in Australia.
Nielsen’s departure means that Irish international Denise O’Sullivan, who finished her guest contract in Saturday’s loss to Melbourne City, will remain with the club for the remainder of the Westfield W-League season.
Head Coach Heather Garriock wished Nielsen the best moving forward and thanked her for her time with the club.
“Paige has been a valuable contributor to Canberra United both on and off the field in her time here, and I wish her luck with what comes next.”
“Player welfare comes first at this club, and we all agreed that it was important for Paige to look after herself moving forward.”
Nielsen thanked Canberra United and fans in a statement, and wished the team all the best for the remainder of the season.
“Canberra United welcomed me with open arms. I will cherish the memories we have made in a very short time. I am grateful for everything Canberra United has had to offer and it has been an amazing club to be a part of. I want to thank the fans for your incredible support as we have been unstoppable at home. Even though it is time to take care of some personal matters, I wish the best to the club, coaches and most importantly to the players who have put in so much work this season. #GreenArmy.”
Garriock welcomed the opportunity for O’Sullivan to stay on as well following an immense contribution through the first half of the season.
“Denise has been simply outstanding for us so far this season,” Garriock said.
“She will now remain with the club for the rest of the season, and that is a positive for the squad not just on the field but off the field as well.”
United now turn their attentions to Thursday night’s clash with Brisbane Roar at McKellar Park in round nine of the Westfield W-League.
