Daniel Piorkowski.

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Melbourne Victory today announced that inaugural playing squad member Daniel Piorkowski has parted ways with the club and will head to Europe in hope of securing a contract with an overseas club.

Piorkowski, 24, has a European passport through his Polish parents, which has spurred the former Qantas Young Socceroo to travel abroad and embark on the next stage of his career.

“Daniel’s a foundation member of the club, so he’s been around for three years and it’s always sad to see someone like that go,” Victory Football Operations Manager Gary Cole said.

“He’s got ambitions to play overseas and opportunities to go and trial and we wish him well.

“He’s been unlucky with injuries during his three years here, but he’s in great shape now and he needs to get some games and match conditioning under his belt so he can give a good account of himself on trial in Europe.

“Football doesn’t use the term ‘clubman’ like Aussie Rules does, but in Aussie Rules terms he’s been a great clubman.

“Nothing’s been too hard for him, he’s been great with the kids, he’s been great doing player appearances and he’s proud to have been part of Melbourne Victory and we’ve proud to have had him involved.”

Piorkowski, who made 30 Hyundai A-League appearances for Victory, said the memories of the 2006/07 season, which saw Victory crowned Premiers and Champions for the first time, will stay with him forever.

“I’ve had a great time at Victory, the coaching staff and everyone here has been really good to me, especially Ernie for giving me an opportunity at the start, which I really appreciate,” Piorkowski said.

“It’s time to move on, have a crack overseas and fulfil a dream that’s been strong for me, so we’ll see what works out.

“I want to explore playing in Europe and not die wondering.

“From finishing second last in the first season to winning both titles in the second season was an awesome experience and something I’ll never forget and the memories that went along with that were fantastic.”

Piorkowski will not be available for Victory’s final AFC Champions League 2008 match against Thailand’s Chonburi FC at Telstra Dome on Wednesday, 21 May as the club aims to secure second spot in Group G.

Tickets for the match, as well as Victory’s blockbuster friendly against Italian giant Juventus FC at Telstra Dome on Friday, 30 May, are available from any Ticketmaster outlet, by calling 136 100 or through ticketmaster.com.au.