LONDON: Long-serving captain Fabricio Coloccini has decided to end his eight-year association with Championship side Newcastle United after terminating his contract by mutual consent.

After scoring seven times in his 275 appearances during his spell with the Magpies, the 34-year-old defender will return to his native Argentina to join San Lorenzo.

"It is rare in football these days that a player gives such length of service to one club," managing director Lee Charnley told the club's website (www.nufc.co.uk).

"In the eight years he has been with us, Colo has become a firm friend and colleague to many players and staff, past and present, who I know will miss him."