Just four months after agreeing to a three-year contract extension, Rudan - who took charge initially on interim basis 16 months ago - claimed in a statement he had cut ties for family reasons. 

However, FTBL understands that due to ongoing turmoil in the Wanderers camp and a lack of confidence across the playing group in Rudan’s leadership, it was deemed necessary by billionaire co-owner Paul Lederer to move him on.

Rudan’s abrupt exit will inevitably spark speculation that Nick Montgomery - just days after being axed by Hibernian - might be approached as a potential successor off the back of his exemplary record with Central Coast Mariners.

Former Newcastle Jets coach Arthur Papas, most recently technical director at Thai Super League champions Buriram, is also available and looking for an A-League opportunity.

Rudan’s statement read: “Unfortunately, due to personal circumstances, I need to end my association with the club.

"The club is in a healthy position, although we fell short of playing in the finals this season, I am proud of all the hard work by the players, support staff and executive of the club.

"I will be spending my time in the near future being close to my family as we are going through a difficult time as my mother's brain cancer has come back."

Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson said in a club statement: “Marko has demonstrated complete dedication to the role in his time here, culminating in him leading us to a Finals campaign last season after many years in the wilderness.

“We thank Marko for his efforts and wish him, and his family, all the best for the future.”

Uncertainly surrounds the future of Wanderers’ advisor/technical director Eddy Bosnar, the man behind Rudan’s contract extension and much of their recent recruitment strategy.

The brother in law of Rudan, Bosnar is understood to have the ear of Lederer and has wielded significant influence since arriving on Wanderland alongside Rudan.

Bosnar told FTBL recently he had ceased operating on the club’s behalf. However, Wanderers sources have revealed he is still heavily involved in recruitment and player contract negotiations, despite the claims of no longer being on the payroll.