Nikas returns

It was an interesting 48 hours for footballer Panny Nikas who has returned to Sydney after calling off his move with Thai First Division club Police Tero FC citing personal reasons.

The former PS4 NPL NSW Men’s Player of the Year star departed Sydney last Sunday after playing what was to be his final match with Sydney United 58 in the team’s 3-2 loss to the Sutherland Sharks at Seymour Shaw.

Arriving in Bangkok Sunday evening, the 28-year-old felt that the decision to become a fully-fledged professional after setting himself up in Australia was not what he wanted to do.

“My decision was based on personal issues that had overcome me upon my arrival.

“I felt that the best thing for me to do at this current stage of my life was to continue to build what I have started in Sydney and that is continuing with my teaching at Kingsgrove North High School, looking at opening a football school with a close friend of mine and continuing with my football career with Sydney United 58 in the PlayStation4 National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s competition.”

Nikas heaped praise on Police Tero FC as well as head coach and former Brisbane Roar manager Mike Mulvey on how they handled his decision along with his agency Benchmark Sports Management.

“Police Tero FC were very professional in understanding my decision and I am thankful of the opportunity they presented me with.

“I want to especially thank Mike Mulvey who supported and took care of me on and off the field whilst I was over in Thailand, he truly is a gentleman and I wish him all the best over there as I know he will do really well.

“Benchmark Sports Management were also amazing in the way they supported me with my final decision whilst over in Thailand. While many would have turned a blind eye on my decision they acknowledged it and were very understanding.”

It will be back to business on the pitch for Nikas as Sydney United 58 take on the Bonnyrigg White Eagles in this Sunday’s Round 16 clash at the Bonnyrigg Sports Club.