Griffiths heads to China

Striker Ryan Griffiths has ended his second spell with Newcastle Jets and joined Chinese Super League club Beijing Baxy.

The 32-year-old leaves after playing 55 A-League games with the Jets and scoring 19 goals.

He returns to China where he played for Liaoning and Beijing Guoan between 2007-2010.

Griffiths had a year to go on his Jets contract, but was granted a release by the club.

Capped five times by the Socceroos, the forward said his move was down to personal reasons.

He said in a statement: "This was a hard decision because I love this club and town but I needed to consider my young family and do what is best for them and, right now, that is going to play in China. I will always appreciate the management of the Jets for supporting me at this point in my career."

Griffiths had started his club career with Northern Spirit in the NSL and later played for two clubs in Romania.

Jets coach Gary van Egmond said: "While our preference was for Ryan to stay, we understand at 32 years of age, going over to China now secures his family financially."

Newcastle chief executive Robbie Middleby paid tribute to Griffiths' efforts for the club.

"It is disappointing to lose a player like Ryan but we didn't want to stand in his way, when making this move was important for his family," Middleby said.

The striker leaves the Jets handily placed to qualify for the Finals series for the first time since 2009/10.

Griffiths has scored nine goals this season, including a brace of penalties in the week 19 clash with Sydney FC at Hunter Stadium.

Newcastle Jets are 4.33 to beat Melbourne Victory, who are 1.75.

Perth Glory are 2.00 to beat Sydney FC, who are 3.60.

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