Wellington Phoenix have welcomed an A-League favourite in Fred as the club says goodbye to Leilei Gao. Chinese import Gao did not live up to expectations and has had his contract cut short by the club.

But it wasn't only his on-field form that cost him his spot in the squad; it was also off the field where he made no attempt to fit in with his teammates or show any adoration for the club.

"It just got to the point where we couldn't work with him anywhere," Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said.

"We did everything we could for him."

On the other hand, the club is pleased to announce the guest signing of former Melbourne Victory star Fred, who has been playing with Washington DC in Major League Soccer in America.

The stint is only for six matches but the Brazilian is looking forward to returning to the A-League.

"I'm just concentrating on the games," said Fred.

"Six is not too much games so I hope we win the six games and I score six goals.

"I want to do my job, assisting the guys in the front."