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A-League bids could for merger

THE Macarthur region’s bid for an A-League team could join forces with a rival bid as crunch time approaches for the 10 expansion teams hoping to secure a place in the competition.

Campbelltown Mayor George Brticevic, Brett Emerton and Lang Walker have backed the United for Macarthur A-League bid. Picture: Robert Pozo
Campbelltown Mayor George Brticevic, Brett Emerton and Lang Walker have backed the United for Macarthur A-League bid. Picture: Robert Pozo

THE Macarthur region’s bid for an A-League team could join forces with a rival bid as crunch time approaches for the 10 expansion teams hoping to secure a place in the competition.

There have been rumours the United for Macarthur bid will amalgamate with the South West Sydney FC bid.

The Macarthur Chronicle understands any deal between the two bids will hinge on Campbelltown Sports Stadium’s continued use as the club’s home venue.

United for Macarthur is one of 10 teams shortlisted for A-League expansion. Picture: Robert Pozo
United for Macarthur is one of 10 teams shortlisted for A-League expansion. Picture: Robert Pozo

Prospective teams have until August 31 to finalise their bid documents.

Under the United for Macarthur community ownership model, Campbelltown Council will have a place on the club’s board with its contribution being the provision of the stadium.

Campbelltown Mayor George Brticevic said he couldn’t confirm whether the bids would join forces.

“The whole bid proposal is fluid at the moment,” Cr Brticevic said.

“I can’t confirm or deny anything in regards to the South West Sydney bid.”

After the August 31 deadline, Football Federation Australia will select two teams to join an expanded 12-team competition in the 2019-2020 season. A decision is expected to be announced in October.

The United for Macarthur bid has the backing of billionaire property developer Lang Walker, the Macarthur Football Association and former Socceroo Brett Emerton as well as Camden and Wollondilly councils.

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South West Sydney FC is spearheaded by bid chairman Gino Marra and has the backing of Southern Districts Soccer Football Association, former Macarthur Football Association chairman Rob Laws and a number of southwest Sydney business identities.

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/macarthur/aleague-bids-could-for-merger/news-story/a75e8e510630ebda7a34e69ef95e469a