Football: Scans rule Griffiths out with ACL injury

Phoenix striker Joel Griffiths will miss the A-League playoffs and undergo knee reconstruction surgery. Photo / Getty Images

Embattled former Socceroo keen to play on for Phoenix

Wellington Phoenix striker Joel Griffiths' A-League season is over after scans revealed a ruptured ACL requiring knee reconstruction surgery.

However, the 35-year-old former Socceroo is determined the injury won't end his career.

Griffiths was taken from the field on a stretcher after falling awkwardly in his high-flying team's 3-0 home loss to leaders Melbourne Victory on Sunday.

"It's been one of the worst years of my life, football-wise," said Griffiths.

"I hope I don't have to go out like this, and if I have anything to do with it I won't."

Griffiths arrived at the Phoenix in late February after a major falling-out at the Newcastle Jets, when he was among five players axed by club owner Nathan Tinkler.

In 128 games for the Jets Griffiths scored 62 goals, and he found the net regularly during stints in China and Japan.

"A lot of people have written me off in the past and I've proved them wrong," he said.

"In the back of my mind, this time they may be right but I'll be doing everything possible to get back."

Griffiths has had a relatively injury-free career and says it's disappointing to be hit with such a serious injury so soon after shifting to Wellington.

His short-term contract was due to be extended to next season.

"I've absolutely loved it at the Phoenix, where the culture is fantastic," Griffiths said.

"I was so down after the problems at Newcastle and what I found in Wellington was a breath of fresh air."

Merrick said it was a disappointing way for the season to end for Griffiths.

"He was a great acquisition for our squad and it's a major blow for him," Merrick said.

"Joel has always been fit and professional in the way he has looked after himself, and I strongly believe he will come back from this and play in the A-League again."

- AAP