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Central Coast's Sam Silvera on trial with MLS side LAFC

Sunday's dramatic win over Melbourne Victory could be Sam Silvera's last A-League appearance for Central Coast with the youngster trialling at MLS club LAFC.

The 19-year-old Silvera came off the bench late in the Mariners' action-packed 3-2 win over Victory at Central Coast Stadium.

A day later LAFC listed Silvera among three trialists on their pre-season roster for a camp that started at the club's performance centre in California.

The Mariners confirmed Silvera has been granted a leave of absence for the trial.

"The club proudly encourages players to pursue chances to further their careers to the highest possible level," the Mariners said in a statement on Tuesday.

"Sam is still contracted to the Mariners until 2022 and in respect of the process, neither club will be making any further comment unless advised."

Silvera broke into the Mariners' lineup during last year's FFA Cup and was hailed by ex-Socceroos winger Robbie Slater as the best youngster to emerge this A-League season following a man-of-the-match display against Perth in November.

The teenager's performances led to his first senior contract and he has gone on to make 11 A-League appearances, scoring one goal.

One of five MLS teams in the 2020 CONCACAF Champions League, LAFC begin their season on Feb. 18 against Mexican team Club Leon.

The LAFC squad, managed by former U.S. national team coach Bob Bradley, includes former Arsenal striker and reigning league MVP Carlos Vela.

Socceroos left-back Brad Smith won the MLS Cup last year with Seattle Sounders, along the way defeating LAFC in the semifinals.

Tim Cahill is the most high-profile Australian to play in the MLS, netting 16 goals across three seasons from 2012 with the New York Red Bulls.

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