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Ljubo Milicevic... heading overseas (file photo). (Getty Images: Ian Hitchcock)
Newcastle Jets will lose current captain Ljubo Milicevic at the end of the season after the defender informed the A-League club he wants to return overseas.
The club announced midfielder Kasey Wehrman will immediately take on the captaincy and thanked Milicevic for making his intentions clear early.
Milicevic, 29, played in Switzerland from 2001 to 2007 before returning to Australia, and recently spoke of his desire to play in Europe again, with Germany a favoured destination.
The former Socceroo has been outstanding for the Jets in the past two seasons but said he had unfinished business abroad.
"I am grateful to have had a special time at the club and to have experienced the change under the new leadership," Milicevic said.
"It is ironic that it coincides with a change for me.
"My football has improved substantially over the past two years and I am now keen to challenge myself overseas.
"I leave the club with some great friendships and memories but there is still some unfinished business to do on the field and I'm determined to contribute to a big finish with the Jets."
Jets coach Branko Culina said a change of leadership would have a positive impact on the team in the run to the finals.
Newcastle sits two points outside the top six but with several games in hand on most of its rivals.
"The club is now well placed to develop further on the field and with injured skipper Michael Bridges providing off-field leadership, to further enhance our community partnership," Culina said.
"Ljubo's early decision will provide him with the opportunity to be single minded about his football and for Kasey to ensure the team bonds on the field starting with Sydney FC next Monday."
- AAP
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