Fury saved by FFA but Fowler´s future uncertain

North Queensland Fury’s participation in next season’s Australian A-League was guaranteed on Thursday but the playing future of Robbie Fowler at the club remained in doubt.

Football Federation Australia (FFA) said it will provide additional financial support to the debt-ridden club as it aims to raise 2.5 million dollars (2.3 million US) to keep it in the national competition.

But as a result of the FFA taking control of the club, reports said the Liverpool legend will need to take a hefty pay cut if he is to see out his three-year contract.

Previous Fury chairman Don Matheson, who said he could not afford to continue as owner, said it would be a tragedy if the former England striker was not retained for next season.

“You can’t put a figure on Robbie’s commitment to this club and the character he has shown,” Matheson told reporters.

“It would be an absolute tragedy if he was not here next season.

“All I can do is recommend (to the FFA) that he should be here.

“He’s not just a legend of the game but he’s a great character and leader and you can’t measure the importance of his personality in the team and the impact he has on the young players.

“To me, I think it’s essential that we make a great effort to keep him.”

While the Fury missed last season’s playoffs, they were competitive in their debut season and drew crowds of 8,000-plus, on average, better than fellow Queensland clubs, Brisbane Roar and Gold Coast United.

“The future of North Queensland Fury is an important part of our national football competition and it is clear to us that the fans and the community in North Queensland have a strong desire for the club to continue to grow,” FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said in a statement.

“There has been a tremendous amount of commitment and a significant level of financial support generated from people and businesses in the area but there is still more work to be done.”

FFA chairman Frank Lowy on Wednesday indicated the governing body would be loath to see the Fury go under, especially with Townsville being the site for a proposed stadium as part of Australia’s bid for the 2018/2022 World Cup.