Seb Ryall’s decision to quit football shocked his Sydney FC teammates, says Luke Wilkshire
LUKE Wilkshire says Sydney FC defender Seb Ryall’s decision to quit football took everyone by surprise, including his own Sky Blues teammates.
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LUKE Wilkshire says Seb Ryall’s decision to quit football took everyone by surprise, including his own teammates.
The 28-year-old was granted a release from his contract at Sydney FC in order to pursue his interests outside of football.
Ryall has spent over a decade in the A-League, first at Melbourne Victory before he joined Sydney in 2009. He still had a year remaining on his contract with the Sky Blues, so Wilkshire says the players were shocked by his decision.
NEW DIRECTION: How Ryall’s exit affects Sydney FC
“He’s a fantastic guy,” said Wilkshire.
“I’ve only known him a short time since I’ve come, but in that short time I’ve really got a feel for the kind of guy he is and what he’s done for the club here.
“It’s a shock and it’s obviously disappointing for us to lose such a person and player, but in life things go beyond football.
“I think it’s great the club have dealt with it the way they did, allowing him to pursue his wishes.
“Personally I had contact with him as well and wish him all the best.”
Though Ryall has spent the last few seasons on the bench, the 28-year-old has provided vital cover for Sydney’s backline with his versatility. Ryall has played at right-back and in the centre of defence, but while Wilkshire says his departure is a loss, there are other options.
“Plenty of depth and cover there,” Wilkshire said. “But of course naturally it’s disappointing to lose him.”
After last weekend’s goalless draw against Adelaide United, Sydney take on the Central Coast Mariners at home on Saturday night.
And Wilkshire says Sydney will be looking to be more clinical against the only team to have beaten them this season. Sydney lost 2-0 to the Mariners in a shock result last November and the players will no doubt be driven by the desire for revenge.
“We analysed that back then and we’ve moved on from that,” Wilkshire said.
“We prepare to win, whether we’re playing the Central Coast or Melbourne or whoever it is — it’s just another opponent.
“The positivity is there within the group, as it has been all season. We’ve just got to continue taking it game by game.”