The 34-year old cut ties with Scottish Championship club Dundee United at the end of the season, despite finishing as the competition’s second-top scorer – only behind ex-Northern Spirit striker Stephen Dobbie.
McDonald proved his prowess in the penalty box once more, scoring 15 league goals in 34 games, playing 40 matches all up for the season and showing there are no questions about his durability. It was his most prolific season in front of goal since his 2008-09 season with Celtic, a club where his goal-scoring deeds are revered.
The decision means he is likely to have played his last match in the United Kingdom, where he has exclusively played since he joined Southampton in 2001. He has only played three professional club matches in Australia – all for NSL club Gippsland Falcons as a 15-year old before moving to England.
Raised in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, McDonald had originally set his heart on joining one of the city’s two A-League clubs for next season.
However, with Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City both well-stocked for striking options, McDonald’s representatives have been forced to cast their net across the A-League to gauge any interest.
Adam Taggart’s sensational switch from Perth Glory to Brisbane Roar could provide an opportunity for an experienced poacher, while Western Sydney Wanderers’ interest potentially hinges on a decision on Brendon Santalab, who turns 36 in September and whose future remains unresolved.
Central Coast have ruled themselves out but Wellington Phoenix could be a suitor pending the future of Andrija Kaludjerovic, who is currently training in South African Premier League side Bidvest Wits.
McDonald has already sought to re-integrate himself with his local football community after linking up with “Team 11”, the aspiring A-League franchise, who if successful in their application will play their matches in a brand new stadium in Dandenong.
