Saint-Etienne part company with Steed Malbranque
The Ligue 1 side have announced on their official website that they have parted company with the midfielder by mutual consent
Ligue 1 side Saint-Etienne have announced on their official website that they have parted company with midfielder Steed Malbranque with immediate effect.
The 31-year-old midfielder joined the French side from Sunderland on a free transfer in the summer transfer window, but has already left the club again after only one Ligue 1 appearance.
"After a meeting on Monday evening between the management of Saint-Etienne and Steed Malbranque, both parties have decided to end the player's contract by mutual consent," a statement on the club's website reads.
"Club and player would like to strongly deny the whimsical and false rumours that health problems from Steed or his children are the reason behind this decision.
"This is solely Steed's decision and Saint-Etienne fully respect the player's wish. We wish him all the best with his choice and for the future."
On Monday, Malbranque released a statement to deny rumours that he has retired from professional football to take care of his ill son, revealing he does not even have a son.