Now they have clarity over the future of coach Giancarlo Italiano, the Phoenix have turned their attention to retaining their most valuable player.

"We have faith that he will be able to help turn around the team's fortunes next season," the club's director of football says.

The Phoenix have rewarded Giancarlo Italiano with a new contract despite falling well short of the A-League Men playoffs.

Claudia Mihocic’s action brought back memories of Luis Suarez’s villainous act against Ghana in the quarterfinals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

There were signs during her emotional farewell but Annalie Longo said she didn’t tell anyone the Phoenix’s final game of the season would be her last.

Whether Giancarlo Italiano is staying or going is set to be decided before the team’s last home match on May 2.

The Wellington Phoenix women's captain Annalie Longo has played her last game in the bright yellow strip.

Annalie Longo has played her final game of professional football.

Follow live updates as the Phoenix host Western United in coach Paul Temple’s farewell game.

The Phoenix fought back from 2-0 down against the Reds at Coopers Stadium, but conceded a third right at the death.