Central Coast have been left with an unwanted "surprise" on the eve of the A-League Men season after coach Mark Jackson made the bombshell announcement he is quitting the club.

Jackson, who was contracted for two more campaigns, will leave the Mariners to take up a yet-to-be-revealed international coaching opportunity.

Friday's news comes just nine days before Central Coast get their season underway against Newcastle on October 19.

Jackson joined the Mariners ahead of the 2023/24 ALM season, guiding them to both the Premiers Plate and Championship trophy, as well as the AFC Cup title in what was a historic treble.

Central Coast will now begin the process of appointing a new head coach.

In the meantime, assistant coaches will lead the team for training and in Sunday's Fan Day trial mat

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