Newcastle Jets shock as Branko Culina sacked and his son, Jason, likely to have contract set aside

The Newcastle Jets have sacked coach Branko Culina just three days out from the start of the A-League season.

And in a further stunning move, the club have applied to Football Federation Australia (FFA) to have the contract of marquee signing Jason Culina set aside.

Jets’ chief executive officer Robbie Middleby said in a statement: “The decision to terminate the contracts was made after a long deliberation by the Newcastle Jets’ advisory board.”

"The club believes that it is highly unlikely that Jason will return to the A-League in the near future, following medical advise.”

New club owner Nathan Tinkler fully supported the move and was confident it would not prove too disruptive.

“Jason’s injury could mean the Jets are without their marquee player for up to three seasons – not a good result for the club, supporters, sponsors and players,” Tinkler said.

“While I acknowledge the difficult timing of this announcement, I am confident in the character of the Jets’ players and staff who will quickly put this matter behind them and enjoy a great season."

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The Jets kick-off their season on Saturday afternoon against Melbourne Heart at Ausgrid Stadium.