Jason Cummings has LEFT Central Coast Mariners for the next challenge in his career.
The former Hibs and Rangers striker has departed the A-League Championship winning side for the Indian Super League as he penned a deal with Mohun Bagan Super Giant for an undisclosed fee after a stunning 18 months in Australia.
In that short period of time, the hitman leaves a club legend after a whopping 31 goals in 50 appearances. He played a key role in the Grand Final victory over Melbourne City as he netted a hat-trick in a thumping win. The Socceroos international made the move Down Under in January 2022 and quickly established himself as a fans' favourite. His form earned him a spot at the World Cup in a dream come true moment as part of Graham Arnold's squad.
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Cummings openly admits the Mariners have 'changed his life' and his time on the Coast has been the most enjoyment he's ever had in football - both on and off the pitch.
Boss Nick Montgomery also paid tribute to the departing striker and is in no doubt he will return to the club one day. He told the Mariners official website: “What more can I say about Jason that has not already been said! His contribution to not only the Mariners but the A-League in general has been nothing short of incredible. When I signed Jason I was in no doubt of his quality and he is an inspiration for the way he reignited his career after a tough spell in Scotland where he fell out of love for the game.
“Whilst we are obviously sad to be losing Jason, we are very proud to have helped him achieve his ambition of becoming a Socceroo and representing Australia at a World Cup. He leaves the club a legend for his contribution both on and off the field, not only his goals but his leadership. He has wrote himself into history and I have no doubt he will return to the Coast one day.”
Cummings ends his time at the Mariners as the club’s third leading goal scorer of all time. He commented: “The boys, the togetherness, the family, Monty and Sergio, what a journey it has been. I have been with the Mariners for a year and a half and Monty and the club have changed my life.
“My career was at a tough point when I came here and I have fallen in love with the Coast. It is the most enjoyment that I have ever had playing football. Off the pitch and on the pitch, I have never experienced anything like it in my life. I cannot thank everyone at the club enough.”